Hawthorns are large shrubs or small trees that develop bright red fruit during the winter months. The lack of leaves during this time gives the tree a striking appearance that sets it apart from the surrounding landscape. The best time to trim hawthorn bushes is in the summer so as not to remove next year’s buds. Depending on the variety of hawthorn, precautions should be taken to protect yourself from the sharp thorns.
Step One
Wait until the hawthorn bush stops blooming in the summer, which typically occurs in June or July in most areas of the country.