How to Prune Nut Trees

How to prune nut trees depends the age of the tree. Young trees require pruning for the first few years. This will produce a strong trunk and branches, and helps to develop the shape of the tree. Mature nut trees older than five years only require pruning to get rid of dead or weak branches. Pruning should take place in late fall while the nuts are falling. In the summer, pruning is done to cut out dead wood. No matter the age of your nut tree, a few simple steps will help guarantee a plentiful crop and a beautifully shaped tree.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears Ladder Small hand-held saw, depending on size of tree

Instructions

1. Determine the dominate leader or trunk of the tree. Trim off the top 1/3 of the leader. If there is a secondary leader growing, cut this off down to the dominate leader. A secondary leader can cause the weakness in the tree.

2. Cut off any dead wood, broken branches and any branches that criss-cross each other. If there are multiple branches growing close together on the trunk, remove the smallest branch. Cut it off close to the trunk and avoiding leaving a stub. Branches growing too close together result in a weak tree.

3. Cut off low branches close to the trunk. Do not leave stubs that allow insects and disease to enter. As the tree grows keep the lowest limbs about 6 feet off the ground. This allows for easier mowing and creates a nicer tree shape. Pinch off any new growth lower than 6 feet off the ground.

4. Prune the remaining branches by cutting off the outer 1/3 of the branch. Make your cut about 1/4 inch above a bud at a 45-degree angle slanting away from the bottom of the bud. This allows for water to run off the cut and encourages new growth.

Tips & Warnings

• For larger nut trees you may need to hire an arborist, or someone who specializes in the care and maintenance of trees. She will have the necessary equipment to tackle the job.

• Excessive pruning can affect the amount of nuts the tree will produce.