Introduction to Pruning Yoshino Cherry Trees
Pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree can be an intimidating task for beginner gardeners. However, with the proper tools, knowledge and technique, it can be quite an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Pruning of a Cherry tree is especially important for taking care of it for longevity and strong growth. The main purpose of pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree is to remove dead or diseased branches, to encourage the growth of healthier branches, and to maintain the desired shape and size of the tree. In this article, we will discuss the basics of pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree, the importance of timing and the right pruning techniques.
The Timing of Pruning Yoshino Cherry Trees
When preparing to prune your Yoshino Cherry tree, it is imperative that you consider the season or time of the year. Traditionally, each season has its proper time for pruning. Pruning in the fall or winter, when the tree is dormant, is referred to as dormant pruning. Pruning during the short period of spring bloom is referred to as bloom pruning. Pruning directly after the tree has bloomed and before it sets fruit, is referred to as summer pruning. Lastly, pruning at any other time is referred to as regular pruning.
For the Yoshino Cherry Tree, the optimal time for pruning is during the winter or fall months, when the tree has become dormant. This is because, during the dormant season, there are no juicy new growths, buds and flowers to prune away which would expose the end of the branch to too much sunlight, or to fungal or bacterial diseases. By pruning in the fall and winter, new shoots will form in the spring and these will be healthier, more vigorous, and more productive than if pruned later in the season.
Importance of Pruning Yoshino Cherry Trees
Pruning of a Yoshino Cherry tree is important for the following reasons: to remove dead, diseased or infected branches, to improve the appearance and structure of the tree, to stimulate growth, to promote flowering, to maintain the desired height and width, to increase the quantity and quality of fruit production and to thin out the crown of the tree. By removing dead and diseased branches, the tree will be more capable of producing more and healthier fruits. Pruning will also help to increase air and light circulation, promote flowering, and improve the structure of the tree.
Tools Needed For Pruning
In order to properly prune a Yoshino Cherry tree, the right tools are essential. The most essential tool needed is the pruning shears – the pruning shear is a concave tool used to easily cut a branch at a certain height. Additionally, long-handled lopping shears are a good tool to use when handling excessively long branches. Finally, a pole saw or chainsaw can be utilized to help with thicker branches.
Proper Pruning Technique
When pruning your Yoshino Cherry tree, using the proper technique is important in order to have the desired results. It is important to be aware that the cuts you make will determine the shape of the tree in its later years. Thus, the goal is to remove the least amount of branches in order to maintain the desired shape and size of the tree.
The cuts should be made in a perpendicular fashion, with a clean, smooth angle. The best angle for pruning is 45 degrees. It is important to minimize the amount of branch bark removed from the branch being pruned, as too much bark may cause oxidation and the branch may rot. Additionally, the cut should be made just outside the branch collar, or the area where the branch meets the trunk. Lastly, pruning of the Yoshino Cherry tree should be done in such a way that maintains the natural shape of the tree.
Pruning Moderately
Pruning too much or too little are both possible problems when it comes to pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree. Too much pruning can also lead to a weakened tree, decrease in flowering, and a decrease in fruit production. Therefore, when pruning, moderation is key. Prune out about 10-15 percent of the tree’s crown, and prune only the necessary branches.
Maintaining and Cleaning Pruning Equipment
Lastly, once you have finished pruning your Yoshino Cherry tree, it is important to have all the necessary tools cleaned and maintained. Clean and disinfect tools in between uses and between cuts. This will help prevent the spread of diseases between trees. Additionally, sharpening and oiling tools regularly will help them to last longer and be more efficient during the pruning process.
Advantages of Pruning Professionaly
When it comes to pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree, there are some advantages of having a professional arborist prune the tree. Most importantly, they are experienced, knowledgeable and trained in the areas of climbing, rigging and pruning. This will ensure that the pruning is done properly, quickly and safely. The professional arborist also will also bring all the necessary equipment, will apply the proper pruning techniques and proper pruning timing, and will provide a proper clean-up service afterwards.
Tips For Pruning Yoshino Cherry Trees
Before you begin pruning, it is wise to have a plan of what needs to be pruned and why. It is also important to have the correct tools for the job. As mentioned earlier, pruning shears, long-handled lopping shears, and pole saws may all be necessary for pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree. Additionally, it is important to cut the branches at the correct angle, 45 degrees, and to cut only if necessary.
Benefits of Pruning Yoshino Cherry Trees
The benefits of pruning a Yoshino Cherry tree are many. Regular pruning will improve the tree’s shape, structure and vigor, while encouraging more flowers and fruits. It will also help to remove any diseased or dead branches, thin out the crown, allow more air circulation and light, and help the tree to reach its desired size. Regular pruning will not only benefit the tree in the short-term, but it will also help the tree to have a healthier, longer life.
Conclusion
Pruning a Yoshino Cherry Tree can be a time-consuming but ultimately rewarding process. With the right tools and knowledge, as well as considerations as to the timing and technique of pruning, your cherry tree will be healthier and more vigorous. Pruning of a Yoshino Cherry Tree should be done with moderation in mind, as well as considering the season, angle and technique used. Following these recommendations will help ensure a healthy long life for your Yoshino Cherry Tree.
