Pruning leaders of Ponderosa Pine - Ask Extension
I planted a baby Ponderosa Pine fall of 2020. It is doing very well but developed 2 main leaders; the trunk is spilt 12 inches above the groun...
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Pruning leaders of Ponderosa Pine #799011
Asked July 01, 2022, 2:34 PM EDT
I planted a baby Ponderosa Pine fall of 2020. It is doing very well but developed 2 main leaders; the trunk is spilt 12 inches above the ground. Should I remove one of the leaders? It is pretty thick. 3 photos enclosed, when it was planted, today, and the split trunk.
Kane County Illinois
Expert Response
Hello Maggie,
I'm not seeing the images. Are you sure the attachment went through?
Thanks,
Talon Becker
Illinois Extension
I'm not seeing the images. Are you sure the attachment went through?
Thanks,
Talon Becker
Illinois Extension
Hi Talon,
Thank you for your response. I’m attaching the images to this email - hopefully you will get them.
Maggie
Hi Maggie,
Yes, if you have a lateral branch that seems to be developing into a second leader, then it would be best to prune it back. Below is a resource that explains how the cut should be made, keeping the branch collar intact.
https://static.colostate.edu/client-files/csfs/pdfs/618.pdf
It's always good practice to sterilize, if possible, the cutting tool blade with rubbing alcohol or ethanol. Also, making sure the plant doesn't get water stressed while it seals off the fresh cut would be good, given the warm weather this time of year. I would make the cut in the late afternoon followed by a good watering of the tree at the base (don't get the branches/needles wet), preferably with a root waterer, if available. If you don't have a root waterer, water can be applied with a hose or watering can at the base of the plant and around the perimeter.
I hope this is helpful. Please let me know if you have further questions.
Regards,
Talon Becker
Illinois Extension
Yes, if you have a lateral branch that seems to be developing into a second leader, then it would be best to prune it back. Below is a resource that explains how the cut should be made, keeping the branch collar intact.
https://static.colostate.edu/client-files/csfs/pdfs/618.pdf
It's always good practice to sterilize, if possible, the cutting tool blade with rubbing alcohol or ethanol. Also, making sure the plant doesn't get water stressed while it seals off the fresh cut would be good, given the warm weather this time of year. I would make the cut in the late afternoon followed by a good watering of the tree at the base (don't get the branches/needles wet), preferably with a root waterer, if available. If you don't have a root waterer, water can be applied with a hose or watering can at the base of the plant and around the perimeter.
I hope this is helpful. Please let me know if you have further questions.
Regards,
Talon Becker
Illinois Extension
