When to prune: Winter, after the leaves have fallen (November to early March).
Pruning goals: Focus on maintaining a well-shaped tree, removing dead, diseased, and crowded branches. Thin out branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.
Amount to prune: Aim to remove 10-20% of the canopy annually to avoid excessive regrowth and watershoots.
Avoid: Over-pruning and leaving large, unsightly stubs. Never cut too close to the branch collar.
Tree Pruning General Guidelines
Tools: Use sharp pruning saws, secateurs, and loppers for precision.
Steps:
Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
Assess the tree from multiple angles.
Cut branches less than 2.5cm above a healthy bud.
Use proper cuts for large branches: make undercuts to avoid tearing.
Always prune to an outward-facing bud for proper canopy shape.
Special considerations:
Don’t prune too much in a single year (maximum one-fifth of the canopy).
For large trees, consider professional help.
Avoid pruning during the active growing season, especially for certain species like cherries and plums.
Pruning Young Trees
Focus on developing a strong structure by pruning competing branches and establishing a central leader.
This formative pruning ensures the tree’s longevity and shape.
Tree Preservation Considerations
Check for Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or if the tree is in a Conservation Area before pruning.
Ensure no active bird nests are in the tree, as pruning during the nesting season could be illegal.
