Ficus trees outside Universal Studios were severely cut back in July, reducing shade for striking actors and writers and potentially harming the trees' long-term health. (Chris Pizzello / Invision / ...

I have a question I hope you can help me with. I have a ficus tree in the house we've had for about four years. Even though we have vaulted ceilings, it is getting a bit out of hand. Can I prune it?

Ficus plants, known for their lush foliage and elegant appearance, are popular choices for both indoor and outdoor gardening.

Severe pruning — a.k.a. “coat racking” — is never good for ficus and other evergreen trees, but pruning during high heat is even worse. Evergreen trees like the ficus that were heavily pruned outside ...