Prune for Health

• Like most shrubs, the most important pruning of a dwarf willow is done for the sake of the plant's health. To keep a dwarf willow bush thriving, branches with dead or diseased wood should be removed. Branches that show signs of insect infestation should also be trimmed off, and any branches that rub against each other should be removed, because they can cause wounds in each other's bark that can lead to an increase in disease and infestation.
  
  

Prune for Size

• Dwarf willow bushes can also be pruned to maintain the shape and size of the plant. When pruning for size and shape, always try to prune the bush evenly. Instead of cutting off all the branches and foliage from one side of the plant, remove foliage from all sides for the best results. You can cut branches down by approximately one-quarter of their size or remove up to one-third of the willow's branches in one season without affecting growth.
  
  

Emergency Pruning

• When pruning a dwarf willow bush for health, you should prune it as soon as possible. This may mean pruning in the middle of the growing season. Remove only the dead, diseased or infested wood to prevent issues from spreading to the remainder of the bush.
  
  

Non-Emergency Pruning

• If the willow has no problem areas and you are only pruning to keep the plant in line, wait until the dormant season to prune. Pruning during the dormant season helps protect a dwarf willow from contracting a disease through the spores in the air from other plants during the summer months.