Pine trees can grow to a considerable height. Once you have grown into a steadfast tree, pruning makes little sense. A shaping pruning is still recommended. It is completely different when you keep your pine trees as bonsai. Learn more about the individual shortening techniques below.
The larger the jaws, the more difficult it is to shorten
The right time
Unlike deciduous trees, you can also prune a pine tree in the fall. Due to the stronger formation of resin, conifers are less sensitive to cut injuries and therefore regenerate better. However, early spring is recommended, as the pine is then no longer in the growth dormant phase.
Thin out pines
Unlike many plant species, pines do not produce new shoots after pruning. If you cut off large branches, the shape of the tree remains the same. Nevertheless, in some cases it is worth removing unwanted branches for the following reasons:
purpose of clearing
- Give light to plants on the ground
- Protection against falling branches in strong winds
- topiary
- Protection of buildings when the pine grows too expansive
pruning pines
An alternative to shortening the jaws is the so-called pruning. In doing so, remove the branches on the sides of the trunk. Subsequently, your pine will produce an unusual amount of resin to protect the interfaces. Especially those trees that are in the shade give a rather unsightly picture. Simply cover your pine trees with a vine like ivy or a climbing rose to hide the ugly spots.
Grow pine as bonsai
Pruning a pine is also recommended if you want to keep the conifer as a bonsai. This is where pruning can really stunt growth. To get a nice shape, cut back the so-called candles (the young shoots) in late spring or early summer.