There are many different types of willow and just as many different ways to cut them. However, garden experts recommend a radical cut for every specimen. However, this task poses a challenge for many hobby gardeners. Here you can find out how and when to proceed when heavily pruning a pasture.
How do you cut back a pasture severely?
To severely prune a willow tree, start by trimming the outermost branches, then work your way inward and trim them at the trunk. Cut at an angle to avoid rot. Apply wound closure agent to incision sites. The ideal time is in February, outside the bird protection period from March to October.
Can the pasture tolerate radical cutting?
The willow is known for its rapid growth, so it forms new shoots within a short time after being cut. It is extremely tolerant of cutting and forgives any mistakes. So you don't have to worry about damaging your tree by cutting it radically. Go ahead, your pasture will reward you with even more beautiful blooms than before. The catkins on the young shoots are considered particularly beautiful to look at.
Procedure
Useful tool
It's best to get help from one or, even better, several people. If pruning is only done every few years, you end up with a lot of clippings. If helpers pick this up straight away, there is less work involved. Utensils likealso help
- a lift (€479.00 at Amazon)
- a chainsaw with a long bar
Instructions
- Start cutting the outermost branches and work your way inward
- Short the branches directly at the trunk
- Make sure to cut at an angle so that the rainwater can run off and not cause rot
- Then apply wound closure agent to the incision sites
- This also serves to correct the growth habit of the willow
Time
Radical cutting is recommended for willows every six to eight years. It's best to aim for a frost-free day in February. Pruning should be done before budding.
Observe regulations
In the warm season, the pasture serves as a habitat for many animal species. To protect this, pruning is prohibited from March to October.