Extension

Homeowners know that a well-maintained landscape adds value to their property. One aspect of a good landscape is healthy trees. Taking the time to train young trees through structural pruning properly will result in healthy, vigorous trees.

 

When trees are healthy, they’re less prone to pests and structural problems later on. Tree pruning is an investment in the long-term health and stability of the tree. Oklahoma is well-acquainted with wind and ice storms. When done correctly, pruning helps establish a strong framework that withstands wind, ice, and age-related stress.

 

Pruning should be minimal in the first year after planting. Don’t do more than removing dead, broken or diseased branches. Allow the young tree to grow freely and produce as many leaves as possible because leaves provide the energy needed to establish a healthy root system.

 

Begin pruning the tree for structure in the second growing season. If the canopy needs raising, don’t remove all of the lower branches at once. Keep some of the lower branches to protect the trunk against sunscald or winter injury, especially on thin-barked species. As time goes on, gradually remove the lower branches to the desired height.

 

The overall goal of pruning is to develop strong, well-spaced scaffold branches, which are the main limbs that form the framework of the tree. The process takes about three to five years after planting.

 

Evenly space scaffold branches around the trunk in a spiral pattern. In small ornamental and fruit trees, they should be 8 to 12 inches apart. Larger shade trees should feature these branches at about 18 to 24 inches apart. When branches are crowded, cross over or rub against each other, damage can occur, which will lead to breakage and/or decay.

 

The best time for pruning is during the dormant season because it’s easier to see the overall structure of the tree. When developing a pruning plan, look for the branches that rub against each other or show signs of weakness. Don’t remove more than 25% of the branches at one time. Remove a few branches at a time. Be sure to step back and walk around the tree to determine if more branches need to be removed.

 

For more information on training young trees, see Oklahoma State University Extension’s fact sheet HLA-6415 Training Young Shade and Ornamental Trees.