Pruning has become second nature to hobby gardeners. No tree is spared from this in the long term. But wait, is reaching for scissors really always unavoidable? Let's take a look at what the larch has to say about it.
When and how should you prune a larch tree?
Larch trees generally should not be pruned unless they are bonsai or hedge plants. If necessary, trim larch trees in spring or fall, removing dead or damaged branches and using clean, sharp tools.
The naturally grown crown
A larch tree that is allowed to stretch its branches wherever it pleases naturally creates a beautiful crown structure. She never needs her owner's help. That's why larch trees are usually not pruned.
Over the years, you may occasionally notice a branch that is dried out, damaged by wind, or grows crookedly or unfavorably. Then it can and possibly even has to be removed.
A life as a solitaire
The large space requirement of a larch usually gives it a position as a solitary plant. There is then enough space all around for their development because there are no other bushes or trees in the way. That's her luck, because that's how she escapes the scissors.
The higher the tree gets over time, the more labor-intensive and complex the cutting work would have to be. A large ladder would still be too short. That's why it's good to give the larch a large space right from the start and let it grow there in peace.
When cutting makes sense
Many things in life have exceptions, and this also applies to cutting back the larch. The following specimens require regular pruning:
- a bonsai larch
- a larch tree as a hedge plant
After cutting, this tree secretes a lot of resin, which clearly shows its displeasure with this measure. Therefore, any necessary corrections to the crown must be carried out carefully.
The optimal time
The bonsai larch is cut in the middle of the growing season so that its strong upward tendency is slowed down. The month of June is ideal for such pruning measures. All other larch trees can be cut back either in spring or autumn if necessary.
What can the scissors remove?
Dead or damaged branches should always be completely removed. How much of the he althy branches needs to be cut back depends on the location and function of the larch.
- Hedges get a topiary cut
- Bonsais need to be cut back to a “small size”
- On other trees only what is annoying is removed
Depending on the size of the tree, the pruning shears will soon be obsolete and will have to make way for the pruning shears (€38.00 on Amazon) or saw. However, the tool should always be used clean and well sharpened.
