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Pruning trees

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Why prune?

Pruning is conducted to manage the form of the tree and improve the quality of the timber.

Form pruning

The aim of form pruning is to correct the form of a young tree by removing faults such as double
leaders and large branches. Form pruning is done when the trees are 1-2 years old. A simple pair of secateurs is usually adequate for the job. Be careful not to be over zealous when form pruning and remove only what has to be removed. Too much form pruning will decrease the tree’s capacity to grow rapidly.

Clearwood pruning

The aim of clearwood pruning is to remove the branches from the main stem of the tree to restrict knots in the timber to within a 10-15cm core. Knots are braches that become incorporated into the trunk as it grows. When branches are removed the tree will grow over the stubs of the pruned branches and produce clearwood.

Clearwood has more value than unpruned logs as knots in sawn timber reduce structural integrity and is often considered undesirable for cabinet work.

How to prune

Pruning should begin when the stem diameter reaches 10cm at about two to three metres from the ground. Always leave half the green crown unpruned to allow continued healthy growth. In radiatia pine the first prune usually occurs at age 6 and continues with three lifts until the tree is about 10yrs and is pruned to a total of 6.2m. Many growers who prune their own trees choose to prune their trees more frequently and do less each time.

Branches are removed from the tree trunk by using a pair of sharp loppers or a saw. Various equipment can be used and is available through a number of forestry equipment retailers. Chainsaws are not recommended as they easily damage the tree’s trunk.

For the best pruning results prune close to the trunk. If a large branch stub is left it will take longer for the tree to grow over it and will reduce the knot free timber. Do not cut into the collar which is the wrinkly protrusion at the base of the branch as this will affect the tree’s capacity to heal over the branch stub.

Useful pruning tips

• Leave at lest half of the tree unpruned at any time to allow ample green material for the
  tree to continue growing;
• Prune branches before they reach 2.5cm as they are easier to manage;
• Prune up to the point where the tree trunk diameter is 10cm to restrict knot damage to the
  wood around the core;
• Prune branches when they are alive and green;
• Always wear appropriate safety gear when pruning (helmet, eye protection, heavy foot wear and
  strong clothing)

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