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Pruning an Evergreen Tree
Pruning an evergreen tree or shrub is often
necessary in order to limit the size of the plant,
correct irregular growth, or maintain a desired form
(such as a hedge). Normally, the natural form of most
evergreens is the most desirable. Generally, there are
two main types of evergreens, and because of their
different habits of growth, they must be pruned
differently. One type of conifer may be referred to as
'whorl-branching' since the branches grow out from a
main trunk, often in a whorled pattern. This type
includes pine, spruce, and firs. The other type of
evergreen branches in a random fashion, most often with
no central trunk, Junipers, arborvitae, and yews fall
into this category. |
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How Evergreens Grow
Evergreens make their new growth from buds that were
formed the year before. These buds are usually brown and
are often found on the terminal end of each branch. In
addition to these large terminal buds are many more
smaller side buds which usually do not grow. Pruning of
the terminal bud will redirect the growth by stimulating
the side buds to sprout and grow. Instead of growing up
or out with a limited number of terminal buds, the
sprouting side buds will create more branching. The
plant will look denser and more compact. |
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Pruning Whorl-Type Branchers
Pines are most effectively pruned by 'pinching the
candles' of light-colored new growth during their short
growing season, usually the month of June. Pruning the
candles after June may result in dead stubs, since the
new growth that was forced out after this pruning may
not have had enough time to harden off before winter and
may become cold-injured. You can prune up to one-half of
the new growth, if necessary. The more you prune, the
denser and more compact the pine will become. Dwarf
mugho pines benefit greatly from such pruning every one
to three years. Spruce and fir tend to grow in one or
more flushes during the growing season. They are best
pruned in the same manner as pine by pruning after the
first flush of growth is about three-fourths of the
expected length. The time for this is usually about
early to mid-June. |
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Pruning Random-Branched Evergreens
Evergreens, such as juniper, arborvitae, and yew grow
continuously during the growing season and can be pruned
at almost any time before August. Pruning after August
can cause any evergreen to become more susceptible to
winter injury. Random-branched evergreens may be pruned
by removing entire branches, pinching the new tip growth
in the spring, or shearing. Any of these methods will
help control the size of the plant. Creeping junipers
usually only need to have their new growth 'tip-pinched'
and dead branches removed. Shearing is usually
recommended for hedges and formal topiary shapes only.
Remember, the natural form usually looks best. |
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 Ranunculus
Radiant |
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 Peony
Bashful |
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 Iris
My compliments |
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