Many trees in the garden need little or no pruning, with the exception of fruit trees. Even the tulip tree does not necessarily need regular pruning. However, sometimes pruning is necessary to keep the tree healthy.
Keeping the tulip tree in check is advisable if you don't want it to grow too big
How do I prune an oversized tulip tree?
The tulip tree does not grow very slowly and can easily reach 30 or 40 meters in height. Accordingly, he needs a lot of space. You should consider this when planting, because the tulip tree does not like to be transplanted. It has quite sensitive roots, which should not be injured.
If it is foreseeable that your tulip tree will be too big for the chosen location and cannot be transplanted, then you should start pruning it carefully as soon as possible. The younger the tree, the better it tolerates pruning. In spring, carefully trim the crown of your tulip tree into shape without cutting too much. Seal larger cuts with a special wax.
Tips for careful pruning
It is best to prune your young tulip tree regularly, then no radical pruning will be necessary. Always be careful and don't cut too much. Always cut off wilted blossoms immediately, as well as diseased or dried branches. This is how you prevent the spread of diseases.
If young shoots get in each other's way, cut off some of them. The same applies to shoots that grow too much inwards and so-called water shoots. Ideally, you do this regularly and only ever have to prune thin shoots. This reduces the risk of injury and does not damage the tulip tree. This cut is best worn in the summer.
The essentials in brief:
- does not tolerate radical pruning
- very sensitive to cuts
- easy shaping possible
- cut off wilted flowers
- remove diseased branches
How do I prune a Tulip Magnolia?
A tulip magnolia, often referred to as a tulip tree, is much more tolerant of pruning than a so-called real tulip tree. With a maximum height of five to eight meters, it naturally remains smaller. With its bushy, compact growth, it is also suitable as an eye-catcher for smaller gardens or lawns. Tulip magnolias do not grow as fast as the American or Chinese tulip tree and bloom much earlier.
If your tulip magnolia grows too big or gets out of shape, you can reach for the pruning shears without worry. With a targeted pruning, you can shape the crown according to your wishes or keep the tulip magnolia in the ideal size for you. Also with this pruning you first remove water shoots and diseased branches.
tips
Cut a shoot that is already in bud, then place it in a vase. With a bit of luck, the flowers will open at room temperature.