Unlike fruit trees, which need a lot of attention, larches are pretty low-maintenance when it comes to pruning. These trees naturally grow into a beautiful shape all on their own, so you usually don’t need to step in. Here’s the lowdown on when and how to give your larch a little trim.
Larches rarely need a heavy prune
A larch tree naturally develops a large, stunning canopy without any help from us. For the most part, pruning a larch isn’t necessary at all. In fact, it gets pretty tricky once the tree is fully grown! Larches can live to a ripe old age and reach heights of up to 160 feet. At that height, you’re definitely not going to be reaching for the pruning shears.
However, there are a few situations where a little shaping makes sense. First, if your tree has suffered storm damage or is growing a bit crooked because of a tricky planting spot, you might need to intervene. In these cases, don’t go overboard—just focus on targeted cuts to fix the problem. You should also always remove any dead branches. And, of course, if you’re training your larch as a bonsai, regular maintenance pruning is a must.
If you’re growing larch as a hedge, pruning is also a good idea. It keeps the hedge looking neat and dense, and it’s the best way to keep the tree at your desired height.
How to prune your larch the right way
When you do decide to prune your larch, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Always use a sharp tool, like a pruning saw, to ensure the cuts are as clean and smooth as possible. Afterward, it’s a smart move to seal the cuts with tree wax. This helps protect your tree from diseases and pests while it heals.
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
- Thoroughly disinfect your cutting tools.
- Put on a sturdy pair of work gloves.
- Make your cuts carefully.
- Ensure the cut surfaces are smooth.
- Seal the “wounds” with tree wax.
