How To Prune A Tree To Grow Taller?

We all love the shadowy canopy of tall and large trees in our home and property. But it takes work to make a tree as tall as you want. Even if you have taller tree species such as Dawn Redwood, American sycamore, Eastern White Pine, etc., it is crucial to maintain them properly to grow taller. And one key point of tree maintenance to make it taller is proper pruning techniques. 

So, how to prune a tree to grow taller? Also, can we cut and prune trees to make them tall? Well, it’s possible to prune tree branches and limbs to grow taller. You must choose the right pruning time, use proper tools, and prune at least 25% of the tree foliage. 

Also, remove water sprouts to stop the pests from sucking the tree juices. It will ensure proper growth and height of the tree. Learn more

How to Prune A Tree to Grow Taller?

Do you have a 1-year to 2-year-old tree at home? If so, it’s time you prune it so the tree can grow tall and healthy. Also, it will maintain the proper shape of the tree to enhance its beauty. 

Step 1: Choose the Right Time

The best time of year to prune a tree is essential for its growth and health. Grabbing your pruning shears and getting to work whenever the mood strikes is tempting. But, you must consider the natural cycle of the tree.

Generally, the optimal time for pruning most trees is late winter or early spring. At this time, the trees are still in dormant condition. It allows the tree to allocate its resources more efficiently towards healing wounds. Also, it will promote new growth once warmer weather arrives.

However, there are exceptions to this rule:

• Most flowering trees should be pruned immediately after they bloom. It is beneficial to avoid cutting off next year’s buds. Its examples include cherry blossoms and magnolias.
• On the other hand, certain fruit-bearing trees also benefit from summer pruning. It helps maintain their shape and encourages better air circulation around the fruit.

Step 2: Select the Proper Tools

Finding the right cutting tool is also crucial for pruning the tree limbs and foliage. Or else you will end up damaging the tree instead of promoting its growth. 

• Pruning Shears or Pruners: These are used for small branches and twigs less than 1 inch in diameter).
• Loppers: Ideal for branches between 1 to 2 inches in diameter.
• Pruning Saw: You can choose a pruning saw for larger branches, typically those over 2 inches thick. 
• Ladders: If you have to cut 5 to 15-foot tall limbs, use a stable ladder. 

All the pruning tools must be clean, sharp and in proper condition. Also, apply disinfectant on the pruning tools for safety concerns. Alos read: How Often And When Should Trees Be Trimmed?

Step 3: Identify the branches to remove

You may start with lower branches. Hence, identify the branches obstructing the tree’s vertical growth and the sun. These top branches may be blocking sunlight from reaching the lower part of the tree.

Also, you must remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches first. It is paramount as they can be a source of stress and disease for the tree. Next, you must remove branches that grow horizontally or at sharp angles. It will include the main trunk, as these can limit upward growth.

Step 4: Make proper cuts

For small branches, you should cut just outside the branch collar. It will be the swollen area near the branch attached to the trunk. Also, you must avoid leaving stubs as they can attract pests and diseases and damage the tree further. 

For larger branches, use a three-cut method:

• First, perform an undercut about 12-18 inches from the trunk. For this, you can begin at the bottom of the branch.
• The second cut should be from the top. It will be right beneath the few inches of the undercut you made previously. 
• The final cut should be right at the front of the collar. Ensure it is a clean and sharp cut to avoid damaging the limbs. 

Step 5: Prune gradually

You must avoid the temptation to remove too many branches at once. It will stunt the tree’s growth and even damage its health. Removing more than 25% of the tree’s foliage in a single pruning sessioncan shock the tree. 

So, gradual pruning over several years benefits the tree’s health and stability more. We suggest you pruning 10% to 15% of the foliage in one session. 

Step 6: Remove Suckers and Water Sprouts

Suckers are shoots that grow from the base of the tree. On top of it, water sprouts are vigorous vertical shoots that appear along branches or the trunk. You must remove the suckers and water sprouts as they divert energy away from upward growth.

Also, you must regularly check the tree’s growth and shape. In subsequent years, you may need additional pruning to maintain the desired height and shape.

Step 7: Proper disposal and fertilization 

You must properly dispose of pruned branches and debris. You can chip them for mulch or compost them if they are disease-free. Avoid leaving cut branches around the tree’s base, as this can invite pests and disease.

After pruning, ensure the tree receives adequate water and nutrients. It will support its recovery and new growth. Proper care is essential for the tree’s health and successful vertical growth.

Conclusion 

The green foliage, larger tree limbs and a long and streamlined tree trunk offer better aesthetics to any home and property. Hence, you should prune the newly grown trees almost every year for two to three years continuously with a gradual speed. 

Also, keep pests and insects away from the tree and feed it with proper fertilizer and watering cycle. All these will ensure proper growth, height and foliage of the tree.