terrace-gardener
Newly Registered
Posts: 1
Joined: Sun Aug 21, 2016 9:09 am

Pruning a baby oak tree

Hi guys, I am not sure what should I do with my little oak tree, as it's developed a non-straight and not the prettiest looking big side branch, that now is bigger than what was supposed to be the main branch of the tree. Is cutting it the right thing to do? Seems like a pity to me since it got so big and it's developing little baby leaves, but I am not a tree expert. So I could use some help. I am attaching some pictures.

Many thanks in advance!
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tomc
Super Green Thumb
Posts: 2661
Joined: Sun Apr 10, 2011 2:52 am
Location: SE-OH USA Zone 6-A

You could remove it at most any time. It does build trunk girth. (and by default root system size).

If this tree was mine, and I had hopes of training it as bonsai I would spend a year or three thinking about cutting the bigger stronger branch off.

If this tree was destined as a landscape planting, I would take the lesser branch.

Hope this helps.

Theclowndog
Full Member
Posts: 34
Joined: Fri Feb 12, 2016 7:11 am

You can trim that side branch off anytime. It will usually spike some new growth off the top if you take a brach of that size off. Just make a clean cut about 3/8 to 1/2" from the main trunk.



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