Tools Required
According to professionals, it is always best to have the correct tools before attempting to cut a cherry blossom tree. There are a few main tools required for this task, including a pruning saw, pruning shears, and a pole pruner. For larger branches, a chainsaw may be needed. Bringing a climbing harness, a ladder, and protective eye gear are also important for safety. The pruning saw is necessary for cutting large branches and for reaching higher limbs. Pruning shears should be used for thin branches that are around ½ an inch in size or less. For branches higher up in the tree, a pole pruner might be needed. If a chainsaw is required, always be sure to use protective gear and read the instructions carefully.
Cleaning and Cutting
Before pruning a cherry blossom tree, it is important to clean the area by removing all dead branches, any diseased limbs, and any limbs that are too close together. It is also important to remove any areas of the tree where two limbs are growing towards each other. Once the tree has been cleaned, it is time to begin pruning. According to experts, cut branches should never exceed 1/3 of the tree’s canopy. To prevent leaving a stub that won’t heal properly, the remaining branch should be cut at the same angle as the lateral branch. If a branch is being removed completely, the cut should be directly behind the collar, or swollen area of the tree.
Height and Angles
When cutting a cherry blossom tree, the height and angles of cuts also play an important role in safely pruning the tree. It is recommended that if branches are being removed, the lowest cut should be 5 feet from the trunk. When it comes to the angles of the cuts, when cutting multiple side branches, aim to keep the bottom cut at the highest point possible. Finally, when cutting the top of the tree, always ensure that you leave two to four leaves behind on the branch. This will provide energy to the other branches in the tree.
Watering and Fertilizing
Caring for a cherry blossom tree after pruning is just as important as the pruning process itself. First, water the tree generously straight after pruning to reduce stress. After watering, be sure to fertilize with a balanced fertiliser to ensure the tree is adequately nourished. For optimal nutrition, organic fertiliser such as compost, manure or other organic fertiliser is ideal.
Maintenance
After pruning and initial care, routine maintenance of a cherry blossom tree is key to keeping it healthy and reduce the risk of disease or pest infestation. Regular watering and fertilization is vital to maintain proper health, and prune away any dead or diseased branches each season. Additionally, proper mulching is important in keeping the tree healthy, as mulch can provide additional needed nutrients as well as help conserve moisture.
Pest Control
To prevent pests and disease, a regular schedule for inspect the tree for signs of infestation is important. If signs of pests are present, it is best to hire a professional to treat the tree and eliminate the pests. Common pests that cherry blossom trees are vulnerable to include aphids, spider mites, scale, and other insects. Additionally, disease can manifest due to wet conditions or a lack of proper maintenance. Symptoms of disease may include yellowing of leaves, dying branches, or an odour coming from the tree.
Common Mistakes
It is important to be aware of the most common mistakes when attempting to prune a cherry blossom tree. For one, cutting too much of the tree is a major mistake as it can cause long term damage to the tree. Additionally, removing large branches when they are not necessary is another common mistake, as this can make the tree appear weaker. Finally, leaving large stumps instead of cutting at the collar is also a mistake, as it leaves the possibility of disease.
Time of Year for Pruning
The ideal time of year to prune a cherry blossom tree is usually in late winter or early spring. Due to the delicate nature of the tree, it is important to avoid pruning during the warm months as this could cause stress to the tree. By pruning in late winter or early spring, the tree will be ready to bloom with healthy flowers in the spring.
Conclusion
When it comes to pruning a cherry blossom tree, there are several important factors to consider. It is important to have the correct tools for the job, as well as a plan of where and how to cut the tree. Cleaning and cutting the tree properly should be done carefully, paying attention to the height, angles, and the amount of cuts. After pruning, regular maintenance is necessary for the health of the tree, such as watering and fertilizing. Finally, being aware of common mistakes and the optimal time of year to prune can help ensure the tree is healthy for many years to come.
