yew

Water yew plants (Taxus media) deeply and infrequently. This evergreen shrub requires approximately an inch of water per week during the growing season, which is typically April through August, and can be reduced to about ½ inch per week during October and November. In an irrigated landscape, yews should only be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. During periods of drought, allow the soil to dry out in-between waterings. When the yews are overwatered, they can become susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases and root rot.

Yew (Taxus media) needs partial to full shade with ample exposure to sunlight. It generally performs well in planting sites that get morning sun and afternoon shade. Yews should also be protected from direct summer afternoon sunlight when temperatures can rise and burn the foliage of the plants. During winter months when the length of the day is shorter yews should get at least 2 hours of direct sunlight on a daily basis. This requirement may be more in regions that experience shorter days during winter.

Pruning yews (Taxus media) should be done sparingly and seasonally. For the best results, pruning should happen at the start of the spring season when the buds begin to swell. Prune by removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches, as well as those branches that have grown too close together to allow for adequate sunlight to reach the inner growth. Prune just enough to give the plant its desired shape or size—no more than a third of the total plant should be removed in any 1 pruning session.