Should you prune young trees at all?

Question

Should you prune young trees? Will this help them grow into a balanced shape? Or can this damage them?

Nigel · Answer

Yes...
While many trees will naturally form their adult shape as they grow, others need a little assistance to create a clear trunk and a well-spaced canopy of branches. It is wise to keep an eye on young trees and carry out formative pruning as required.

Pruning should generally occur after the leaves have 'flushed' and hardened, so late spring through summer.

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Sid · Answer

You can prune young trees, which can help them grow into a balanced shape.
If pruned correctly it will not damage them, don’t leave stubs and always prune to a junction.

Paul · Answer

Most certainly take away the weaker branches so the healthy ones grow stronger

Laura · Answer

Yes, you can and absolutely should do formative pruning as required to encourage the tree to grow and take shape in the way you would like it to. It depends however on which tree it is as to when you should prune them.

Kevin · Answer

Young trees need formative pruning basically just a gentle prune in order for them to grow and naturally balance their crown.

Ivan · Answer

It depends on the type of tree some can take it eg: topiary,lime conifer, others can't eg: acers

Josh · Answer

I would suggest not pruning trees at al for the first 2 years. When the time does come to prune, only prune in the winter. Pruning in the winter months provides new and fresh growth. Pruning in the summer stumps growth and can cause infection

Should you prune young trees at all?

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