The monkey tree or araucaria impresses with its special growth habit. In order to maintain this shape, it is better not to cut a monkey tree at all, but simply let it grow. If you absolutely cannot avoid a cut, you need to follow a few tips.
How do I prune a monkey tree correctly?
A monkey tree should ideally not be cut to preserve its natural growth habit. If necessary, cut individual branches directly at the trunk on a warm, dry day without leaving any stubs. Use a sharp saw and clean the blades before use.
When is it time to cut the araucaria?
The monkey tree looks most beautiful when it is simply allowed to grow. Remember that every cut can affect the growth habit and cost the tree additional strength. If you shorten the top of the monkey tree, it will stop growing.
Sometimes it may be necessary to cut individual branches because they are broken, dried out or too long. Branches rarely have to be cut because they are infected with fungi.
How to cut the monkey tree correctly
- Wait for a warm, dry day
- Remove branch directly on trunk
- don't leave stubs
- use a sharp saw
Avoid trimming the monkey tree on a wet day. Too much moisture can then penetrate the tree through the interfaces. This promotes the development of fungal diseases. Use sharp cutting tools to prevent the branches from tearing when cutting. Clean the blades before use to avoid spreading diseases.
Always cut the branches directly at the trunk. Don't leave any stubs. Not only does this look unsightly, it also slows down growth.
You can shorten branches that are too long. Always cut them back directly above a branch so that they are the same length as the branch growing underneath.
Consider space requirements when planting
A monkey tree can reach considerable height and width. Therefore, consider the space required when planting the tree. Then there is no need to cut later.
In a favorable location it grows up to five meters high and three to four meters wide. Incidentally, male specimens do not grow quite as large as female trees.
Tip
It takes a few years for the araucaria to reach its final height, because the monkey tree only grows slowly. It takes 30 years for the first flowering. Only then can new offshoots be pulled from the cones.
