Pruning an avocado tree can be an intimidating task for an individual who has never attempted it before. The process becomes much less difficult if one understands the basics that come with pruning an avocado tree. Proper timing for pruning is important for a healthy and vibrant tree. To ensure a successful pruning, one must understand why pruning should be done, when is best to prune, and how to properly prune an avocado tree.
Pruning is important for the health of an avocado tree as it eliminates unnecessary growth. Growth consists of shoots that bear both fruit and shade the canopy. Allowing too much of this growth will detract from the abundance of fruit. Pruning also works to maintain the size of the tree by removing the unessential transfers of energy. Additionally, pruning can be a useful way to prevent diseases and pests from taking over the avocado tree.
When to prune an avocado tree can be tricky. It should be done after the blossoming period generally three to four months after flowering. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the burgeoning season begins. During this time, the tree is dormant and it will not be affected as drastically by pruning. The removal of the dead wood and the crossing branches at this time gives the tree ample time to recover due to the warmer temperatures in the spring and summer months.
Proper pruning techniques should also be used when trimming an avocado tree. It is a good idea to begin pruning at the bottom branches, as these can be seen easier when standing at the base of the tree. A saw will be necessary to cut through the bigger branches. Pruning shears can be used to get rid of any twiggy growth. If a branch needs to be removed, it should be cut two-thirds of the way back to the base of the main stem. This will result in a more natural look.
H2: Create the Shape and Canopy
When pruning an avocado tree, one should aspire to create a vase shaped tree with an even canopy. By pruning away horizontal branches, light can flow better to the center of the tree, and the branches will be encouraged to grow upwards and fill in the canopy. Pruning the crown of the tree is a good way to create the desired shape for the tree.
Although one can prune an avocado tree at any time of year, pruning during the dormant season is the best technique. An avocado tree needs pruning to maintain its size and health, and to prevent the spread of disease and pests. Start by pruning at the bottom of the tree, using both a saw and pruning shears, and work up creating a vase shaped tree. Proper pruning at the right time of year will have a huge impact on the health of an avocado tree.
H2: Cut Out Un-Fruitful Branches
An avocado tree grows and produces fruit on new wood, not old wood. Therefore, it is important to prune and cut out any branches that are not producing fruit. Removing these un-fruitful branches, especially those that are sprawling or overtaking the space of vigorous branches, will allow the tree to focus its energy on productive and strong branches. Pruning can be used in this instance to promote better fruiting.
H2: Remove Unhealthy Branches
When pruning an avocado tree, it is also important to look for any branches that appear unhealthy and remove them. If the branch appears diseased, has cankers, or any other signs of being unhealthy, it must be cut out and removed. Doing so will promote the overall health of the tree and prevent the spread of disease.
H2: Cut Off New Shoot Growth
New shoot growth can impede the growth of both fruit and shade so it must be pruned off to allow for an abundant production of fruit. Make sure to cut any new branches off near the base of the branch. This will encourage the development of vigorous shoots and will promote a healthy and vibrant avocado tree.
Pruning an avocado tree is an important part of its health and must be done at the proper time of year. Prune off any un-fruitful or unhealthy branches and cut off new shoot growth to promote the overall health of the tree. A properly pruned avocado tree will have a vase shaped canopy with ample light flowing to the center of the tree, and will produce a bountiful harvest of vibrant avocados.
