The Nordmann fir, like any other type of fir, needs a top. Without them, the typical pyramidal crown shape would no longer exist. Nevertheless, she sometimes has to use scissors to shorten the tip. We explain when and why this can make sense.
When and why should you cut off the top of a Nordmann fir?
Cutting off the top of the Nordmann fir can be useful to reduce heavy growth or to adjust the tree size. This is done by shortening the terminal shoot during the growing season or by cutting the top of trees that are already large.
Increased growth in this country
The Nordmann fir originally comes from the Caucasus and the region around the Black Sea. Even though she has now become at home here, the new living conditions are a little different. The tree does not necessarily need a topiary. However, it has been shown that the Nordmann fir tends to have stronger top growth in local soils. The owners usually don't like this.
Stopping the fast-growing tip
The shoot that is responsible for height growth is called the terminal shoot. In order to curb its strong growth, it is not cut back, but its growth power is inhibited in good time at the beginning of the growing season. To do this, the flow of juice is interrupted. Special scissors or pliers are available commercially that can be used to cut the tip in several places, but not completely cut through.
- depending on when vegetation begins in May or June
- cut in the woody part of the tip
- just below the new growth
This measure is intended to reduce annual growth by around 30%. In order to permanently regulate the development of the tip, this measure should be repeated every year if possible.
Tip
If you don't want excessive growth, then you should avoid fertilizing. An occasional dose of Epsom s alt is enough to prevent brown needles.
Cut large shoot tips
If a Nordmann fir has become too large for its location or casts an undesirable amount of shade, it is difficult to dig up and replant because of its deep root system.
If felling seems to be the only option, cutting the tip can be attempted, although the success of the measure is controversial among experts. After the cut has been made at the desired height, two strong leading branches should be bent upwards and tied down. After 1-2 years the weaker branch is removed while the other forms the new tip.
Note:Inquire beforehand from the environmental office whether shortening a large, old fir tree is actually permitted or, if necessary, obtain the appropriate permit.
