Pruning the Mediterranean strawberry tree correctly is not that easy. In autumn, when many native plants are pruned, the beginnings of flowers appear. At the same time, the tree bears green, yellow or already ripe red fruits. However, it would be wrong to forego the renovation cut for this reason. Arbutus also tends to age in the lower parts of the branches, while excessive flowerless and fruitless water shoots form in the upper area.
When and how should the strawberry tree be cut?
When cutting the strawberry tree in spring, you should only pay attention to shoots without fruit and remove dead branches. Branches that are too long can be cut in late summer, but possible flower buds should be taken into account. More severe pruning is possible in early spring.
How much can you cut back?
Expert opinions vary greatly here. Some plant lovers advocate cutting back the strawberry tree carefully and when it is young. Others, however, even cultivate Arbutus as a bonsai. In this case, professional cutting is the most important design measure. The strawberry tree can tolerate pruning, even if it is regularly pruned and sometimes hardly bears any fruit.
As is so often the case, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. In the first few years, strawberry trees grow very bushy and quickly. They therefore need to be cut more often. The larger the plant becomes, the slower and looser the natural shape develops. Pruning is then no longer necessary as often. In addition, older trees bear either buds, flowers or fruit all year round, so you will inevitably have to cut off these tree decorations.
How is circumcision done?
Gardening sensitivity is required here:
- In early spring, only shorten shoots that do not bear fruit.
- In late summer you can cut out branches that have become too long. Look out for buds that could form flowers in the fall.
- During the entire growing season, disturbing parts can be cut off.
- Remove dead branches regularly.
Thanks to this care measure, Arbutus branches better and grows beautifully bushy.
When is it allowed to cut?
If more severe pruning is unavoidable, the branches can be shortened before the growth period begins in early spring. Arbutus copes well with this, but you have to do without flowers and fruits in the same year and perhaps the following year too.
Tip
This care measure produces cuttings that are ideal for propagation. When placed in a nutrient-poor growing substrate, the offshoots, stripped of their leaves except for two leaves, quickly develop roots.
