Fall Trimming Advice?

Question

I have planted along the back of my yard about 2 years ago Leyland Cypress Trees. Within this time they have grown a good 3 feet or more since planted. These are the kinds of trees that form a barricade for privacy as they grow tall and closer together. I need advice...should I trim the new growth off to force bushiness as they have become taller and not wider OR should I leave them alone and they will widen on their own? Any care tips from you guys would be appreciated! Thanks :)

Answer 1

In the first year trim back overlong sideshoots at the start of the growing season in April. Trim the sides lightly in late July.

In the second year the sides can be trimmed again to encourage denser growth and to leave a neat appearance over the winter.

In subsequent years continue to trim the sides each year leaving the leading shoot untouched until the desired height has been reached.
READ MUCH MORE:
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profiles0402/pruning_leylandii.asp
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The most serious problem is a canker that causes branch dieback to the main trunk, and can seriously disfigure or kill the tree. To help prevent spread of this fungus, spray wiith "Fungicide", and "Prune Only During Dry Periods." Bagworms can also be a major insect problem on this tree. For further information on problems on Leyland cypress, refer to our fact sheet {Leyland Cypress Problems, HGIC 2004}.
READ MORE: http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/HGIC1013.htm

Answer 2

If you want more width, you can just cut about 2ft from the top only. This will encourage the brushes to grow outward. You might have to trim it this way a few more times, but only cut the new top growth next fall. Then just leave it be for another 2-3 years. Training trees and brushes is just like training young children, it takes time, patience, and love.