When and why should I prune trees?
Pruning is a valuable technique for any gardener, but the timing is key to getting the best results.
As a general rule prune deciduous trees when they are dormant and leafless in winter and prune evergreen trees just before they start to produce leaves in the spring.
Pruning can produce wonderful shapes to trees and tame a large tree to thrive within a small garden. Care has to be taken with fruiting trees as much of the next seasons flower bud can be removed if the tree is pruned in the winter.
Pruning fruit trees, such as apples, pears, and plums, requires extra care. If you prune too heavily in winter, you risk removing the flower buds that would have produced fruit the following season.
No flowers = no fruit, so try to keep some of last year’s wood, as this is where many of the flower buds form.
When a tree is pruned at the right time the root is empowered to drive on vigorous top growth in an effort to make up with lost time.
Knowing the physiology of your tree and prune it at the right moment will lead to very satisfying results!
If you need more guidance on pruning any of your trees, just give our expert sales team a call on 01353 720950 or email info@barchamtrees.co.uk