Lots of plants need a regular trim to stay healthy, so it’s no surprise that many of us gardeners get a little “clipper-happy” once spring rolls around. But when it comes to the larch, you might want to put those shears down! You should only prune a larch under very specific circumstances. Here’s the scoop on why that is and when it’s actually okay to cut back.
Why you can usually skip the shaping
Larches are famous for developing gorgeous, stately crowns all on their own. Honestly, this tree is happiest when its branches are allowed to just do their thing and grow naturally. You’ll notice that a larch naturally forms a really attractive shape without any help from us. In most cases, you don’t even need to think about a shaping cut—just let nature take the lead!
Now, the rules change if you’re trying to grow a larch as a bonsai. In that case, you’ll need to do some specific “training cuts.” That’s the only way to transform this forest giant into a tiny miniature. If you’re going the bonsai route, regular pruning is a must; otherwise, that little tree will try its hardest to shoot right back up toward the sky.
When pruning is actually a good idea
Even though they’re low-maintenance, there are a few times when a trim is necessary. First on the list is storm damage. If a nasty storm has snapped or damaged branches, you’ll want to prune those back. Try to be as precise as possible with your cuts. If you end up with a larger “wound” on the tree, make sure the cut is smooth and seal it up with some tree wound dressing or grafting wax to keep it protected.
Here’s what you’ll need for the job:
- A sharp saw or high-quality pruning shears
- Disinfectant to clean your blades before you start
- A sturdy pair of gardening gloves
It’s also a good idea to step in if the tree has grown crooked due to poor site conditions or if you spot dead branches. And there’s one more big exception: if you’ve planted your larches as a hedge. Since these trees can get massive as they age, you’ll need to prune them occasionally to keep the hedge at your desired height and stop it from taking over the yard!
