How to thin out a tree

It’s also a good idea to remove up to a quarter of the thinner branches from the crown on a regular basis to allow air to circulate through the tree, reducing problems with pests and diseases.

Carry out such pruning every three to six years – more frequently on younger trees. Secateurs can be used for thin, twiggy growth, while loppers and a pruning saw will be handy for anything thicker. Be sure to always cut back to a healthy bud or a strong shoot or branch.

Get pruning with these steps on how to thin out a tree.

You Will Need

• Secateurs
• Pruning saw
• Long-handled loppers, For taller branches

Step 1

Inspect the tree thoroughly, considering which branches, if any, you need to cut out. This tree is well-formed and only needs a little pruning. Identify any dead branches for removal first and cut these out.

Step 2

Use a pruning saw to cut out some of the thicker, congested branches, especially those that are growing in the centre of the crown of the tree. Prune back flush to a main branch, taking care not to leave any stubs.

Step 3

Cut back thin, twiggy stems to the main branches and trunk using secateurs. This will tidy up and clear the tree, allowing more light through to plants growing underneath.

Step 4

Reduce the length of strong, young, upright growths that would compete with the main leader. Cut back by between a third and a half their length, pruning to just above a bud with secateurs or loppers.

Step 5

Assess the finished shape of the tree, making a last check to remove any badly placed or crossing branches. Aim to leave an open crown with well-placed branches.

Other trees to prune like this

• Amelanchier
• Birch
• Cercis
• Crab apple
• Hawthorn
• Lilac
• Nyssa
• Ornamental pear
• Snakebark maple
• Sorbus