Young Tree Pruning

Information about young tree pruning

When young tree pruning may be useful

Young tree pruning can be useful when a young tree is developing poor structure, crossing branches, weak forks or competing leading stems.

It is commonly used to:

• Encourage a stronger branch structure as the tree matures
• Remove weak forks or co-dominant stems
• Reduce the risk of future branch failure
• Remove crossing branches that may rub together
• Support long-term tree health and shape
• Help reduce the need for more significant tree work later in life

When formative pruning should be carried out

Formative pruning of deciduous trees is usually best carried out in winter, when the branch structure is easier to see.

Some trees need to be pruned at certain times of the year. For example, plum and cherry trees are usually best pruned just after flowering to help reduce the risk of infection, as they can be prone to silver leaf and canker.

Birch and walnut trees should generally be pruned once they are in leaf or later in the summer.

Crossing branches and pruning cuts

When growth within a tree crown results in crossing branches that may rub together, one of the branches should usually be removed. Rubbing branches can cause damage, loss of strength and possible fracture during adverse weather.

Every pruning cut creates a wound on the tree. If the cut is made at the wrong angle or in the wrong place, it can affect the tree’s ability to heal and maintain healthy growth.

Professional young tree pruning by Norfolk Trees

Norfolk Trees was established in 2002 by Ashley Barnes and operates throughout Norfolk and East Anglia. Our tree surgeons are fully qualified for the work they undertake and have experience across all aspects of tree care.

Our work includes dismantling, felling, crown lifting, crown reductions, dead wood removal, formative pruning, tree surveys to BS5837, tree hazard reports, pest and disease diagnosis, bat inspections, stump grinding or treating and tree planting.

Clients can be confident in the quality of our work. Norfolk Trees holds £10,000,000 public liability insurance and all work is carried out to BS3998:2010.

In addition to domestic tree work, we undertake commercial work for local authorities, parish councils and other organisations, including the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, Breckland Council, Serco, South Norfolk Council, Broadland Council, NCC Highways, KierMG and Anglian Water, along with numerous other clients.

We are also approved by the Norfolk County Council, and are CHAS Accredited through the Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme.