Many garden owners believe that a tree can be limited in its growth height by a radical crown cut or even a capping. Many also cling to the misconception that such an intervention would increase the stability of the tree and contribute to its health. The opposite is the case.
A tree crown should never be cut back radically (like here in the photo).
Don't cut trees!
Trees, whether deciduous or coniferous, should never be topped or radically stripped of their natural crown. Such an approach leaves serious problems, which over time can lead to the death of the tree. These include about
Lack of supply options
If a tree is deprived of many leaves, it can no longer provide itself with sufficient nutrients. It starves, which in turn leads to weakness and increased susceptibility to disease and pest infestation. Wood-decomposing fungi, which penetrate through the extensive wounds, are particularly dangerous.
instability
Once the crown has been pruned, the tree will try to restore balance between the roots and the crown. This occurs through the growth of many shoots that reach vertically upwards, which compete with one another and make the tree unstable due to their weight and possible rot. Furthermore, the cut tree develops a large mass of leaves in order to be able to continue to maintain the supply.
Perform crown pruning carefully
For these reasons, you should refrain from planned topping or severe crown pruning, as nothing good will ever come of it for the tree. Quite apart from the disadvantages mentioned, this measure destroys the natural habit of the tree. If the tree is too big for its current location, you can try transplanting it instead - with the appropriate planning and the right know-how, you will have more success.
ground rules
Nevertheless, a gentle pruning can be useful for some trees from time to time, for example to maintain a certain shape. Here are some basics to keep in mind:
- Never cut away more than is absolutely necessary.
- If possible, only remove weak, diseased or dead branches.
- Shoots that are too dense or cross-growing can also be removed.
- Never remove more than a quarter of the thin branches.
- This is where most of the leaves are. If they are gone, the tree cannot carry out sufficient photosynthesis.
- The tree tries to compensate for every pruning with increased new growth.
- Therefore, cut at the right time of year and not too often.
tips
When buying a tree, always pay attention to the expected final height and the expected growth width. This information is a good indication of whether the tree fits in the intended location or not.