Rejuvenation pruning entails cutting the plants back to very short stumps (less than 12 inches). The older and larger the plant is, the more stressful is the procedure. I'm afraid that that's a fact of plant life.

I'd be tempted to remove the hollies that are flanking your front steps. It sounds like you've been held hostage by those plants for waaay too long. ;-) An entry should be open and inviting in every way.

I don't have enough information to help you on the tea olives (pictures would help). I will say that if you have to shear a foundation plant several times a year to keep it within an acceptable size, then it is simply the wrong plant for that location.

Foundation plantings 'should' complement a home at all times, and allow the structure itself be the focal point....not the plant. If the plants are too large, too puny, or in a state of constant stubbing, then something is wrong.

For your information, Osmanthus (as a whole, including Osmanthus fragrans) respond well to rejuvenation pruning. I would personally not gamble on success of your plants, considering their age and size. I'd be sorely tempted to remove and replace.

Please remember that my opinions are only based on your post. Without seeing the plants, this is just a speculation. But I have seen too many homeowners utterly dissatisfied with their landscaping, yet so hesitant to remove and replace irritating plants. Plants are an ENTIRELY renewable commodity. And sometimes a very small change makes a world of difference.

Here is my favorite way to prune foundation plants that aren't working out. Wrap a chain firmly around the base of the shrub. Secure the other end of the chain to a sturdy bumper of a pickup truck or big ole Volvo. Start driving.

I did this a couple of years ago with the big ugly shrubs from the builder's foundation planting. I'm so glad I did it. Now I have plants I love in front of the house, and none of them will be more than three feet high. And, they're fragrant!

Dorie, I have long valued your expertise from reading so many of your wise postings for so long now. Your thoughts truly just confirmed what I knew I'd need to do. The deep green hollies are beautiful sentinels against the antique red brick but only because I have slaved for years to keep them so. Insert a sigh here: I'll have to think long and hard on replacements as the house size somewhat demands something imposing. Any thoughts there? Sugarhill, I do have some experience with the old truck, chain and bumper trick!! But not doable this time as I have no desire to track and tear up my front lawn in the process. As to the Osmanthus...well, I may just experiment and halve them and see if they will refill. If not, they will go, too...but I'll miss their heady fragrance! Thank you both! Sue