Many gardeners underestimate the actual growth potential of a tree or are under the misconception that a forest tree can easily be kept at a low height by cutting. What works for a bonsai does not always work for a garden tree - which is why it is important to carefully consider whether shortening the tree is actually necessary or even permissible.
How to properly trim a tree?
To trim a tree professionally, you should first thin out the crown by removing crossing and inwardly growing shoots. Then reduce the size of the tree crown evenly by diverting branches growing under a side shoot. Note: Official approval is often necessary.
Official approval is often necessary before shortening
Even in your own garden, trees cannot simply be cut down or shortened. The tree protection regulations in force in many communities often specify in detail whether, when and how trees and even large hedges may be cut back. Large and old trees in particular are considered worthy of protection, with the specific measured size being an important criterion for obtaining approval. However, very different limit values apply depending on the city or municipality. Very old trees even fall under the regulations of monument protection.
Don't just cut down trees - this is how shortening works
If the tree has become too big, you should not simply cut it down, even with official approval: Conifers in particular will resent this approach, especially since they do not sprout again from old wood and therefore the top will always be missing. But deciduous trees also react to the tip being cut by developing numerous vertical shoots - and can also develop problems with the roots. Since trees always strive to keep the relationship between the root system and the crown in balance, simply cutting them off often results in root death. These begin to rot and, if you are unlucky, can lead to the gradual death of the tree.
How to reduce the size of a treetop
However, instead of cutting off the top of the tree, you can carefully reduce the size of the tree crown. Proceed as follows:
- Thin out the crown by cutting out any crossing shoots that grow inwards.
- Now reduce the size of the tree crown by always removing the branches growing under a branching side shoot.
- This is what experts call “deducing”.
- Trim the crown evenly to preserve the natural appearance of the tree.
Please note, however, that any pruning measures always result in increased sprouting of the tree!
Tip
If you want to narrow the tree crown, just cut back the lower side shoots.
