The larch is a magnificent tree whose natural blueprint does not include cutting. Cultivation in the garden sometimes sets strict limits to which it has to adapt. When is a topiary really necessary?
When and how do you carry out a topiary cut on a larch?
A topiary cut on a free-standing larch is usually not necessary. For a larch hedge, pruning should be done in autumn by removing dead, damaged branches and bringing the hedge to the desired height and shape. With a bonsai larch, disturbing shoots are plucked out in early summer and major corrections are made in autumn.
Larch as a solitaire
Cultivating the larch free-standing is the best way to give this magnificent tree the attention it deserves. If you give it enough space right from the start, there can be no complaints about the shape of the tree. On the contrary, a naturally grown larch is an attractive sight.
Such a tree in a single position does not require any topiary. Dead branches or branches that have been snapped by wind may be removed promptly, regardless of the season.
The space required later is often underestimated when planting. If after years the larch comes close to other trees or buildings, the disturbing branches can be cut back in autumn.
Larch as a hedge plant
Larch trees are also occasionally planted as hedges. You need to get a shape cut regularly so that the hedge doesn't get out of shape and doesn't take up more space than necessary. The larches should be cut the year after they are planted because they will branch out more. The cut must then be repeated annually.
- The ideal time for topiary is autumn
- first remove all dead branches
- also all damaged branches
- shorten the hedge to the desired height
- cut back the sides of the hedge evenly and evenly
An electric hedge trimmer (€104.00 on Amazon) is ideal for cutting the hedge, as it creates a more even shape than by hand.
The disadvantages of cutting measures
The European larch does not like pruning and then produces a lot of resin. The cuts are also open entry portals that promote the penetration of fungal pathogens. The Japanese larch is easier to cut.
- Limit cutting measures to a minimum
- use disinfected and sharp tools
- Seal larger interfaces with tree wax
- cut on a dry day
Tip
Cutted shoots can be used for propagation by cuttings.
Topiary cutting of a bonsai larch tree
The bonsai larch tree initially receives a basic shape, which can vary depending on your preferences. Later, new shoots that disrupt the shape are simply plucked out. This usually happens in early summer. Major corrections to the shape of bonsai should only be made in autumn.
