La pruning cleaning It is one of the most important garden and field tasks to maintain the health, vigor, and safety of trees and shrubs in any environment, whether ornamental, agricultural, urban, or natural. This type of pruning consists of the selective removal of dead, diseased, damaged or unproductive branches, improving both the appearance and structure of the plants.
What is clearing pruning and how does it differ from other types of pruning?
Pruning is a fundamental procedure in the tree and shrub maintenance Its main objective is to cleanse the plant by eliminating undesirable elements. It is usually applied to adult plants as a maintenance measure or in conjunction with other types of pruning.
It differs from the formation pruning, which is performed on young trees to define an adequate structure, and the rejuvenation pruning, more drastic and focused on recovering aged or severely damaged specimens.
Among the elements that are removed with cleaning pruning are:
- Dry branches, broken, weak, diseased or showing signs of plague.
- Dry stumps that do not have active outbreaks.
- Suckers or snakes (very vigorous shoots, usually vertical, which do not contribute to the structure).
- Withered flowers or overripe fruits, which consume unnecessary energy.
- Intersecting branches and prevent good ventilation and interior lighting.
- Shoots with completely green leaves in variegated species.
How to properly perform clearing pruning?
Pruning should be thorough but never excessive to avoid causing further damage to the tree or shrub. Key steps for proper pruning include:
- Select clean cutting tools and well sharpened to avoid tears and uneven cuts.
- Identify and selectively eliminate the dead branches or visibly diseased, preferably cutting to the trunk collar or the base of the main branch.
- Remove pacifiers y wurms, as well as weak shoots that weaken the main specimen.
- Trim any branches that interfere with the shape, balance, or prevent proper ventilation and light from entering the canopy.
- Delete flower remains and fruits that are already formed but dry or damaged.
Pruning should not be done in extreme weather conditions, such as frost or severe drought, as this could further compromise the plant's condition. After pruning, it is advisable to protect major wounds with a sealing paste, especially on fruit trees or delicate species.
When is the best time to do clean-up pruning?
Normal dormant period (late winter or early spring) is ideal for most species, as the plant has lost most of its leaves and damaged areas are easier to distinguish. However, removing dangerous, dry, or diseased branches is best done immediately, regardless of the season.
For shrubs or species that flower on the previous year's wood, pruning can be done after flowering to avoid interfering with the flower or fruit production cycle.
The ideal frequency is usually once a year., although in fast-growing species it can be done up to twice, depending on need.
Importance and benefits of clearing pruning
Pruning provides a series of benefits benefits essential for the development and longevity of trees and shrubs:
- Promotes health and prevents diseases by preventing fungi or bacteria from spreading from damaged branches to the entire specimen.
- Avoid risks from dangerous falling branches in parks, gardens and urban areas.
- Favors the entry of light and air inside the cup, improving photosynthesis and flowering.
- Regulates growth and improves the structure, keeping the specimen balanced and harmonious.
- Contributes to aesthetics from the environment, providing specimens with a better visual appearance and more vigorous.
In fruit trees, pruning is essential to maintain productivity and prevent pests and diseases from affecting the harvest, while in ornamental species it helps preserve shape and vitality in the face of environmental adversities.
Caution and cleaning of tools after pruning
A crucial aspect is the cleaning and disinfection of the tools used After making cuts, especially if you suspect the presence of disease or sap leakage. The most recommended method is the following:
- Apply a 70% alcohol solution on the blades of the pruning tool.
- Clean with a paper towel or soft material any remains of sap or plant material.
- Spray with alcohol again and let it air dry.
- Avoid using bleach in small tools, as it can damage the metal.
For larger tools and for clearly diseased plants, very diluted bleach can be used exceptionally, followed by a thorough rinsing and drying.
This hygiene prevents the transmission of pathogens from one plant to another, in addition to preserving the useful life and quality of the cutting edge of scissors, saws and other cutting instruments.
Species and shrubs that require pruning
La vast majority of shrubs and trees They require pruning, although some only require this type of intervention regularly. Among the most common species are:
- Acer palmatum
- Buxus sempervirens
- Berberis spp.
- Various conifers (Juniperus spp., Pinus…)
- Holly aquifolium
- Cotinus coggygria
- Laurus nobilis
- Mytrus communis
- Photinia serratifolia
These shrubs, among others, maintain a healthy and aesthetic structure only with proper pruning, without the need for drastic pruning. If you'd like to learn more about pruning, you can also check out our article on pruning the oleander.
In the case of urban and fruit treesPruning is one of the best investments to ensure its long life and good performance, as well as to ensure the safety of passersby and surrounding structures.
Properly organizing and executing pruning ensures healthy plants, increased fruit production, fewer pests, and a consistently well-maintained ornamental appearance. Performing these tasks regularly is key to a thriving and safe garden.
