Pruning the Eastern Redbud

Shaping and Maintenance of Your Ornamental Redbud


Eastern Redbuds are ornamental trees that grow primarily in the eastern and south eastern part of America. They are small, usually topping out at around 30 feet though many are smaller. This makes the job of pruning them, relatively easy. Because the eastern redbud is one of the first trees to bloom in the spring, it is a stunning addition to the landscape.




The eastern redbud does not bloom in red, as you might think. Its blossoms are pink to lavender to purple in color. The blossoms erupt all along the branches and sometimes even along the trunk. The bark is dark in color, setting off the color dramatically. The wide-spreading branches lend a delicate appearance. Maintaining that appearance is what pruning is all about.


Timing

Eastern redbuds can be pruned for maintenance during two times of the year. The first and preferred time is in the spring just after the flowers have fallen away. This is typically April or May. Later winter while the tree is dormant is another good choice, just before the buds start to break.


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Tips for Pruning Older Apple Trees

Pruning an older apple tree, especially a neglected one requires patience and a little tlc.


As apple trees age, they can sometimes become overcrowded, particularly if the apple tree has changed owners over the course of its life or become neglected. A careful and slow pruning regimen can restore an older apple tree to its earlier beauty and production levels. The key to success is to never trim away more than one-third of the tree in any given year. The tree can suffer from shock and you’’ do more harm than good otherwise.

Assess the Apple Tree

Is it overgrown? Is it crowded? Where? Think about the shape the tree should have when the process is completed. A good shape for the canopy is either round or pear-shaped. Throughout the process, step back and evaluate your progress to be sure you aren’t taking too much from any one place.

Start Pruning the Apple Tree

Pruning should be done during the dormant period before any buds begin to break. Start from the top and trim the edges to create your desired shape. You will need to use a ladder and this involves a certain amount of risk. Position it safely against the tree, securing it as necessary to prevent slippage.

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