How to Prune a Flowering Plum Tree
Tip
For best results, prune flowering plum trees after they have bloomed. Buds are developed the previous season. Pruning them in the winter or early spring will remove the buds and, subsequently, the flowers.
Cuts or wounds do not need to be sealed. This can actually prolong callousing or healing, which can give pests and disease an opportunity to attack the tree.
Warning
Use caution when using a ladder, especially when working with tools. Make sure the ladder is securely positioned and stable. It may be necessary to have a second person hold the ladder for additional support.
Flowering plum trees are popular additions to a landscaping plan. It is recommended that they be pruned annually to maintain their shape and growth. It also is vital to maintaining their health, as damaged, diseased and infested branches are removed as well. The size of the tree will determine which tools are needed. Ladders and pole pruners may not be needed for very young trees. After pruning, your flowering plum tree should have a scaffold appearance with a main trunk or leader and branches that are perpendicular to the trunk. A good pruning regimen can keep your flowering plum tree healthy for years to come.
- Flowering plum trees are popular additions to a landscaping plan.
- A good pruning regimen can keep your flowering plum tree healthy for years to come.
Pruning
Assess the shape and size of the tree. Decide what shape the pruned tree should have, such as round or pear-shaped, to prevent over- or under-pruning. Snip from the ends of the branches, stepping back every so often to evaluate the shaping progress.
Place a ladder safely under the tree to reach the upper sections. Adjust the base of the ladder against something sturdy and settle the top against the trunk with sturdy branches to either side to prevent slipping. If branches are not available, the ladder can be bound in place. Pinch off new growth at the tips to control the size of the tree.
- Assess the shape and size of the tree.
- Place a ladder safely under the tree to reach the upper sections.
Amputate any dead or damaged branches with hand shears for branches under one inch in diameter. Use lopping shears or a pruning saw for larger diameter branches.
Snip any branches that cross over one another or rub against each other. Use the pole pruners for parts of the tree you can't safely reach from the ladder. Extend the pole pruner to the desired branch and cut it off.
Cut cleanly, leaving no stub. Do not leave jagged or stepped cuts--these allow insects and disease to gain access to the tree. Smooth out ends by cutting away any jagged edges with the saw. Leave the collars of branches intact, as a cut too close to the trunk can damage the tree.
- Amputate any dead or damaged branches with hand shears for branches under one inch in diameter.
- Leave the collars of branches intact, as a cut too close to the trunk can damage the tree.
Evaluate the tree from 10 to 15 feet away to discern if the branches have approximately 2 feet of vertical space between them. This spacing permits adequate sunlight and air circulation to the lower limbs. Make any "heading back" or trimming cuts about 1/4 inch above a bud or lateral branch.
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Tips
- For best results, prune flowering plum trees after they have bloomed. Buds are developed the previous season. Pruning them in the winter or early spring will remove the buds and, subsequently, the flowers.
- Cuts or wounds do not need to be sealed. This can actually prolong callousing or healing, which can give pests and disease an opportunity to attack the tree.
Warnings
- Use caution when using a ladder, especially when working with tools. Make sure the ladder is securely positioned and stable. It may be necessary to have a second person hold the ladder for additional support.
