About the need to prune a chestnut, there are different opinions among experts, which are quite justified. You have to decide for yourself how you treat your chestnut. Carefully weigh the risks and benefits of regular pruning.

Pruning makes the chestnut susceptible to disease

What speaks against a cutback?

Opponents of pruning sweet chestnuts and horse chestnuts primarily cite the risk of disease transmission as a reason for rejection. Corresponding pathogens can be transmitted directly during the cut, for example through "contaminated" tools. The cut surface is also an entry point for bacteria, fungi and pests.

What speaks for a regular cut?

Regular pruning will help keep your chestnut healthy. Diseased and dry branches are removed first when pruning. In addition, you can positively influence the shape and growth of your chestnut with a targeted pruning.

As far as possible, only thin branches with a diameter of less than about five centimeters should be cut. If you only cut very rarely, then this is hardly feasible. If you want to grow your chestnut in a bucket, then you can't avoid a cut.

Do I have to pay attention to something special when cutting?

To keep the risk of disease transmission as low as possible, you should always work with clean tools. If you have previously pruned a diseased plant, then disinfecting the tool is highly recommended. Well-sharpened scissors and knives cause significantly smaller injuries than blunt cutting tools. This means fewer germs can penetrate the tree.

How should I prune my chestnut?

After removing the diseased and dry branches, cut off the water shoots. Also remove weak side shoots, they do not contribute to the stability of the tree. Always ensure an even and harmonious shape and touch up a little if necessary. The more you prune your chestnut tree when young, the easier it will be to take care of the tree when it is older.

The essentials in brief:

  • Regular pruning promotes tree health
  • use clean and sharp cutting tools
  • Cut off diseased branches and water shoots
  • avoid unnecessary injuries

tips

The more carefully you prune your young chestnut, the less often you will have to use pruning shears later.

Category:

Trees