How to Prune Flowering Almond

Prunus triloba 'Multiplex', also called a double flowering plum, is sought after for its eye catching pink flowers that bloom in the springtime. Pruning a flowering almond encourages a strong show of flowers for next season and helps to keep the plant strong and healthy. When the terminal bud is cut off, the shrub will grow multiple buds in its place, creating a nice full shrub each time it's pruned. Do extensive pruning just once a year, after the flowering almond is finished blooming.

Things You'll Need

• Hand pruners

Instructions

1. Choose the right pruning tool. To prune flowering almonds, you will need a sharp pair of hand pruners. Before making any cuts, rinse the pruners with bleach to kill any germs that might put the tree at risk.

2. Cut branches out correctly. Don't make flush cuts flat against the tree trunk. This will cause an injury to the tree and invite rot and fungus to grow. Make all cuts away from the bark ridge that forms between the branch and the trunk of the shrub.

3. Start pruning from the inside of the tree. Assess the branches. Cut out any dead, diseased or broken branches first. Look for branches that are crossing each other and eliminate one of the crossed branches. Prune any branches that are growing towards the center of the tree.

4. Prune the outside branches next. For shaping and thicker growth, remove up to half of each branch. Make each cut back to a bud on the branch, to help the tree heal as quickly as possible. Aim for a rounded shape and trim the branches accordingly.

5. Pull and trim out the sucker plants at the bottom of the tree that are attached at the tree root. This will help neaten the appearance of the tree and give the surroundings a manicured look.

Tips & Warnings

• Removing dead, broken and diseased limbs can be preformed year round as needed.

• Don't dress the shrub's open cuts with a tree balm or dressing. Leave it open for the shrub to take care of naturally.

References

• Information on the Flowering Almond
• Pruning ornamental trees