It's not for nothing that the easy-care ginkgo is now a popular ornamental tree in the home garden. Its strikingly shaped leaves turn bright yellow in autumn, making the tree a great eye-catcher practically all year round.
How can I cut my ginkgo into shape?
To prune a ginkgo into shape, start pruning the young tree early. Cut the main shoot, annual side shoots and outward-growing shoots annually. Be careful not to cut into the old wood.
How does a ginkgo grow naturally?
Naturally varieties also stay smaller. The young ginkgo usually grows quite straight and slender and does not have a pronounced crown. This only forms after around 25 years. With appropriate pruning you can ensure that your ginkgo gets a typical tree shape sooner.
Do I need to prune my ginkgo regularly?
The Ginkgo has existed for millions of years without any support from humans. He will continue to do so. Your ginkgo does not need regular pruning. However, you should always remove diseased and/or dry branches, just because of their appearance.
Can I keep a ginkgo small by cutting it?
It is entirely possible to keep a ginkgo small by carefully pruning it back. However, you should start early and prune the tree regularly. With skill you can train a ginkgo into a bonsai.
What do I have to pay attention to when cutting the ginkgo?
It is important that you only ever cut the young shoots of your ginkgo tree and not into the old wood. The sooner you start pruning, the sooner your ginkgo will take on the desired shape. You should especially shorten the shoots growing outwards, including the main shoot.
The most important things in brief:
- Topiary cutting possible
- start with a young tree
- prune annually
- Short the main shoot
- don't cut into old wood
- shorten annual side shoots
- prune outwardly growing shoots
Tip
A ginkgo can be easily cut into shape, but you should start early. Frequent cutting is necessary for a beautiful, dense crown.
