Harvest will improve: which trees should be pruned in the garden in February

In winter, trees are dormant - their growth slows down or stops completely. Pruning during this period is less damaging to the tree, as it does not lose much sap and heals wounds faster. Removing diseased or damaged branches in winter helps prevent the spread of diseases and pests in spring.

Winter pruning allows you to form the desired shape of the tree crown. Removing unnecessary branches promotes better penetration of sunlight into the crown, which has a positive effect on fruiting. Kobieta Interia experts told us which trees should be pruned in February.

General rules for pruning

You can start pruning trees and shrubs when the daytime temperature exceeds 5°C, so it is important to follow the weather forecasts. The procedure can be carried out if frost, wind gusts, or heavy precipitation are not expected in the coming days.

On leafless plants, it is much easier to see the density of the branches and identify the branches that need to be removed.

Caring for trees and shrubs in February consists mainly of removing broken and diseased shoots. You should also eliminate branches that thicken the crown excessively.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare your tools - you will need sharp secateurs, a garden saw, and a knife.
2. Remove all dry, diseased, and damaged branches, as well as those that grow inside the crown and thicken it.
3. Form the crown, cut off branches that protrude beyond the desired crown size, as well as those that grow vertically upward.
4. Make the cuts at a 45-degree angle to help the wound heal faster.
5. It is worth treating the cuts with garden varnish or a special solution to prevent infection.

Excessive pruning can weaken the tree and reduce yields, and young trees need less pruning than adults.

Which fruit trees need to be pruned in February

You should focus on the most frost-resistant species. These include apple and pear trees. Moderate sanitary pruning will provide better conditions for more abundant fruiting.

In the case of apple trees, you can allow more radical pruning if you are dealing with an old and very neglected tree. Then it may be necessary to cut out almost half of the branches.

At the end of February you can also thin out the branches of the walnut tree. Cut off a branch with a diameter of 1 centimeter and wait half an hour. If juice begins to flow from the wound, pruning will need to be postponed to a later date.

Some shrubs also need pruning in late winter. These include gooseberries, currants, and raspberries.

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