Sky Pencil Holly

[Kaye]

Hi All,
I live in SE TN, on the border of 7. I have two Sky Pencil Holly bushes that front my brick garage, facing south. They are doing well, except they are starting to look a little leggy.
I see some here that are pruned, and some that are not. Am wondering, does pruning help or hurt them, and does it take away that pretty candelabra shape?
they have already budded and are leafing now.
Any help, thanks!

[bullthistle]

Pruning always helps but after plants become dormant and the bareness at the bottom could mean that either not enough water or the soil is too sweet so try some ammonium sulfate to lower the pH.