Do not cut branches anywhere. A targeted cut guarantees even, vital growth and a tree crown without gaps. These 3 tips explain the most important cutting rules for beginners in a practical and comprehensible manner.

Sharp, optimal tools are the be-all and end-all when pruning trees

Cut branches at buds

Leaves, flowers and new shoots sprout from buds. Focus your attention on these growth nodes when properly trimming branches. A bud must not be injured or surmounted by a hook. With this cut you do it right:

  • At the desired cutting point, locate a bud that faces outward
  • Place the scissor blades above this bud at a distance of 3-5 mm
  • Support the branch with your free hand
  • Cut off the branch at a slight angle, away from the bud, so that the water can run off easily

Can't see a bud at the desired intersection? Then look out for a dormant eye as a slight bulge under the bark. The cut brings the dormant bud to life.

Derive old branches

The derivation cut is part of the basics of cut maintenance. By deriving an old, long branch, you redirect the growth energy to young wood and activate vigorous budding. At the same time, there can be no gaps in the crown image at this point. It's that easy:

  • Select a strong side branch on overly long, old branches
  • Cut off old branch wood just above the junction to young wood

Please do not cut into the young wood and do not leave a long stub of old wood. So-called coat hooks dry back and serve as a welcome entry point for pathogens on the wood.

Cut thick branches in stages

Cut off arm-thick branches step by step. Thanks to this cut, a branch cannot break off and cause serious damage to the tree trunk. How to properly saw off a branch:

  1. Position the saw on the underside of the branch at a distance of 20-40 cm from the trunk
  2. With the leading hand, saw the branch down to the middle
  3. Support the branch with the other hand at a safe distance from the saw blade
  4. pull out the saw
  5. Place the saw blade again on the top of the branch at a distance of 10-20 cm from the cutting point (right or left)
  6. Cut until the branch breaks off

Cut or saw off the remaining branch stump on the Astring. Finally, smooth the cut with a sharp, clean knife blade.

tips

What you use to cut branches is just as important as how you do it. Bypass or anvil shears are suitable for thin branches. The two-handed pruning shears are the perfect cutting tool for branches with a diameter of 2 to 3 centimetres. Models with ratchet gears save energy and are easy on the nerves. From a diameter of 4 centimeters, you can cut branches with a versatile folding saw (€17.70) or a powerful hacksaw.

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Care tips