Did you know you can control the height of most trees with the right pruning technique? Many people assume trees grow to their full height without interference, but with thoughtful crown pruning, you can guide their shape and size more effectively. And Summer is the perfect time to do this.
To see how it's done watch our founder Philip prune the beautiful Cornus Mas outside our office in this short video:
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Why Summer Is Ideal for Crown Pruning
By June or July, the vigorous burst of spring growth and rushing sap that comes with this has slowed. This makes it an ideal time to prune, especially if you're looking to reduce height and encourage softer, more manageable regrowth. Removing that first flush of growth encourages a second flush later in the season, which tends to be gentler, easier to shape and more beautiful.
Plan Before You Prune
Before you make any cuts, take a good look at the tree and think about the shape you want to achieve. Look at this year’s growth and decide where you want to reduce it. The goal is to avoid cutting into older wood. Instead, focus on removing just the new, fresh stems. This approach helps preserve the tree’s structure and encourages healthy development.
Use the Right Tools
We recommend using sharp hand shears rather than mechanical trimmers. Mechanical tools can leave rough or torn cuts, which take longer to heal and may make the tree more vulnerable to disease. Clean, precise cuts made with well-maintained shears are much healthier for the tree. We love to use shears and ladders from Niwaki Tools.
Step Back Often
As you prune, step back frequently and check the shape from a distance. When you're up close, it's easy to lose perspective and remove too much. Taking regular breaks to view the whole tree helps keep the final result balanced and natural-looking.
About New Wood Trees
We are an artisan tree nursery specialising in field grown multi-stem trees and shrubs. We grow approximately 13,000 trees in the beautiful rolling fields of South Devon and have over 100 varieties for you to choose from.
All our trees are grown in here for at least five years, during which time they are lovingly hand pruned to create a beautifully sculpted distinctive shape and structure. They are all hugely individual and full of character due to their environment and our care. We warmly encourage you to visit our nursery in person.
To immerse yourself and experience the trees in a way that you simply can’t from websites and photographs. You’ll be able to choose your preferred trees, understand their individual character, and tag them in person. Leaving with peace of mind that you will receive exactly what is needed to suit your design. Visits are by appointment only. Please contact us to arrange your nursery tour.
For more information about our nursery and how we grow our artisan, sculpted, multi-stem trees please head to our about us page.
To learn more about our trees and what stock we currently have available, please head to our stock pages or Contact Us to discuss your specific needs.
If you'd like to learn more about what we mean by 'Multi-stem trees'? Check out our explainer here.
