How do I prune my honey locusts thornless and when do I prune it.

Lay30379426
by Lay30379426
Honey locusts thorn less
  9 answers
  • Barbara A. Miller Barbara A. Miller on Nov 03, 2017

    You should always prune a tree after the sap goes down in the fall. Then trim the tree the way you wish it to look. It appears that you have one large branch going straight up. If you want a short tree, cut that back so it will stay about even with the rest of the tree.

  • Kaye Kaye on Nov 03, 2017

    Hi I live in Wisconsin, I have found that when pruning, go for it. Especially with locust trees. The more you prune, the fuller they will get. My husband and neighbors have laughed at some of my over-pruning, but 1 or 2 years later the prunee was full and beautiful.

  • MGMN MGMN on Nov 03, 2017

    International Society of Arboriculture is your source for proper pruning & care of trees (isa-arbor.com). And, please do not cut back the main leader of your tree (called topping) it can only lead to future problems.

    • Blaire Simpson Oslander Blaire Simpson Oslander on Nov 03, 2017

      I agree, ISA is the best source for pruning guidance. Since this is a young tree, I'd keep it to a minimum. Look for crossed branches or diseased tissue. Decide what shape you want the tree to be and begin guiding the tree that way. Never prune more than 20%, over pruning will result in suckers and water sprouts.

  • Margolynluvsu Margolynluvsu on Nov 03, 2017

    Always prune when plants are dormant (after leaves have fallen in fall) they are like in hibernation and will not be stressed. Never cut the tallest branch, that is the leader, cutting the leader creates a bushier plant. If this is your first time, conservative trim is advisable. You can always trim more next year. Good luck. Thank you for keeping and saving a tree.

  • KimH KimH on Nov 03, 2017

    This tree looks like it needs at least another year's growth before pruning...

  • Barbara Barbara on Nov 03, 2017

    Prune when dormant prune any branches that cross back over the main branch prune any down ward growing branches. Cut back any long branches at a joint to direct the growth Never cut over one fourth of the growth

  • DORLIS DORLIS on Nov 03, 2017

    There are thornless varieties that have the same sweet smell. Those thorns puncture tires, feet and anything else that comes near them and at 76, I am not into doing anything I do not have to.

  • Tal13703883 Tal13703883 on Nov 07, 2017

    Hi, do not cut the tallest branch (central leader). It is ok to cut the bottom branches back according to the referenced videos so you can mow around it. Try not to prune the first year after you plant. Take care not to allow any big V shapes so you have only one dominant branch. Remember the leaves convert sunlight into food!