The aronia already grows well branched by nature, and it does not tend to proliferate like so many other berry bushes. So it really doesn't need to be cut. Nevertheless, a cut can contribute to better branching, and it is also essential if the Aronia shrubs are to grow together to form a dense hedge.

Aronia is best pruned in winter

Many flowering bushes should be pruned immediately after flowering. However, this is not possible with the Aronia, after all it is a fruit-bearing shrub. For this reason, the best possible time is late autumn or early winter, when all the fruit has been harvested and the plant is no longer in the sap.

Built-up cut for better branching

You can carry out a so-called growth cut immediately after planting the plant and during the first few years. Tightly spaced shoots are cut out and the basic shoot is shortened. In this way, the shrub will branch out more and develop more side shoots. Young plants should be pruned so that they develop as many branches as possible and eventually develop a beautiful crown over time.

Rejuvenation pruning on older chokeberry bushes

If, on the other hand, your aronia bushes are getting on in years, a rejuvenation cut is recommended. This is particularly useful when no more flowers are formed within a very wide bush. With a rejuvenation cut, you remove the oldest main shoots and shorten individual basic shoots. This pruning will encourage your shrubs to regrow and produce more fruit.

How do I prune my aronia bush

How much you prune your shrub is entirely up to you. The aronia berry is very robust and doesn't mind radical pruning. In addition, the plant fortunately does not tend to bleed. When making a cut, do the following:

  • Put on gloves and solid clothing.
  • Choose sharp rose scissors.
  • Select the shoots to be cut out.
  • Make the cut above a bud.
  • The cut is made at a slight angle.
  • Remove shoots that are crossing or branching out.
  • You should leave a leader in the center of the bush.
  • If necessary, simply shorten the leading drive.

Such a cut should usually only be necessary every two to three years. In the meantime, feel free to leave your chokeberry to its own devices.

tips and tricks

It is best to cut the plants as soon as they are planted. Leave a middle shoot a little longer as the lead shoot and shorten the other shoots accordingly.

Category:

Vegetable garden