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Pruning a Norway Spruce #794025

Asked June 03, 2022, 12:25 PM EDT

I think I have a thirty-five year old Norway Spuce or Colorado Spuce (I'm not sure). The tree has never been trimmed or limbed up. I would like to cut off the branches that are lying on the ground and I was wondering if this would harm the tree. There is a lot of undergrowth that I have trouble trimming and keeping neat looking. The bottom branches are in the way when I mow. I really don't want to cut the tree down. Also, if I do cut the branches off, do I need to protect the area where the branch was cut? Some type of sealant or band-aid? The tree is about 400 ft. from my house. Thanks for your help.

Delaware County Ohio

Expert Response

Thanks for your question and concerns.

Yes, you can if done properly as it is simple. Try to do the trimming in the fall when the tree is less active to help reduce sap flow from the cut.

The cut branches need not be sealed as it slows down the self-healing of the tree and may cause insect or disease damage. Best to leave the tree to heal itself.

I have listed below several links that should help you in dealing with your problem. I have also listed your County OSU Extension Service should you want to contact them for additional information, Again thank you for allowing us to be of some help to you.

Thank you for allowing us to help you with your gardening questions. Here are some other helpful websites:

BYGL Newsletter: http://bygl.osu.edu/

OSUE FactSheets: http://ohioline.osu.edu

State Master Gardener Volunteer website - http://mastergardener.osu.edu


Delaware County
OSU Extension Office


149 N Sandusky St

Delaware, Ohio 43015

Phone:<personal data hidden>

Fax:<personal data hidden>

Link:

Visit the Delaware County Office website

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/landscaping/21019196/how-to-prune-spruce-trees

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/should-cut-lower-branches-off-20foot-pine-tree-105300.html


https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/pruning-coniferous-trees.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRzes560OME

https://www.thegardenprepper.com/trimming-bottom-branches-of-blue-spruce/

https://extension.unh.edu/blog/2019/07/should-i-cover-large-pruning-wounds-tree-wound-dressing




MGV Seneca County Replied June 07, 2022, 2:33 PM EDT

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