There are several types of pruning that are applied depending on the purpose and needs of the plants. Therefore, it is necessary to know each one in order to understand the ideal one, whether pruning is required to remove dead branches or to work on very young plants.
Similarly, if you grow in a Multitunnel Greenhouse, a Gothic Greenhouse or a MultiWideSpan Greenhouse, the controlled conditions will allow you to prune at specific times and with greater flexibility. Interested in finding out more? Read on through the article and learn more about how and when to grow your plants.
- What is pruning?
- Benefits of pruning crops or trees
- What to consider before pruning?
- What types of pruning are there?
- When is the best time to prune?
What is pruning?
Before we get to know the types of pruning, we need to clarify the concept of pruning. It is a common practice in gardening and allows certain areas of a plant to be removed. For example, shoots, leaves, branches or parts of them.
This is vital so that plants can grow healthily, cut the spread of pests and look much better.
Benefits of pruning crops or trees
All types of pruning have an important benefit for plants, trees and crops in general. This is grouped into three elements:
- Health: Pruning helps plants to stay healthy, improve their oxygenation, reduce the possibility of spreading pests, and not make other plants or crops sick. This includes fruit-bearing trees and plantations.
- Safety: This benefit can be applied to all types of plants and trees, but the latter are the most important. A tree that is pruned keeps its entire area safe, as there are slopes and branches that can cause damage.
- Aesthetics: It is indisputable that pruning makes plants and trees look better. Depending on your purposes, you can achieve an eye-catching appearance, emphasising that it is a well cared for element. Whether you need to highlight flowers in a garden, fruit or simply keep a crop in order.
What to consider before pruning?
Power cannot be done lightly, as we would be neglecting the benefits that this technique provides to the plants. Before doing so, consider the following:
- Sharpen pruning shears very well, as this avoids damage to leaves and branches.
- Sterilise tools frequently and check that they are ready before using them for pruning.
- Check that you need to prune before you start.
What types of pruning are there?
It is time to understand the types of pruning that exist. Once you learn what each one is for, you can choose the ones that your crop, plant or tree requires.
Formative pruning
Formative pruning is pruning to encourage the growth of younger trees. In the process, ornamental shapes are applied to the trees and it allows them to adapt better to the environment in which they are located. However, it is not only used to beautify a tree or to provide shade, but also for fruit trees that need to have space to reach the fruit.
Pinch pruning
A pinch pruning is the technique of cutting the branches of trees that are more tender. The intention is to prevent the growth of these new branches and to prevent them from growing, thus giving a certain shape over time.
If we are talking about a very bushy shrub, it is possible that the pruning is done several times a year, while for others it will be enough to do it once.
Fruiting pruning
Fruiting pruning is pruning that is applied to increase the fruit yield of a tree. For example, the number of leaves and spaces where fruit grows must be controlled. The idea is that the tree is balanced and can maintain its leaves, fruits and flowers in perfect condition.
Sanitation pruning
This type of pruning can be applied to various trees, shrubs and plants. It is applied to remove dead or very damaged parts, whether they are stems in poor condition, dry leaves and other elements that do not benefit the plant.
Rejuvenation pruning
Rejuvenation pruning is similar to rejuvenation pruning in that it involves pruning plants that are unhealthy and trying to revitalise them. Branches, leaves or a whole stem that affects the health of the plant can be removed. The idea is to keep it strong and make it look young again.
Flowering pruning
This technique is applied to more ornamental plants, as it is intended for their flowers. The aim is to keep the flowers looking their best and in the right places, removing anything that might get in the way. The effort will depend on the type of plant and tree you are working with, as some are bushier than others.
Pruning after flowering
Finally, there is pruning after flowering. This type of pruning is done on flowering trees and once the flowers have bloomed. Shrubs are often cut back in winter to welcome spring with much more strength and health.
When is the best time to prune?
The time to prune will depend on the type of pruning you wish to apply and the specific plant or tree. Some pruning can be done at any time of the year, such as sanitation, and others are done at specific times of the year, such as pruning after flowering.
However, it is advisable for most types of plants to prune after the first half of the year. This helps them to withstand climatic changes, whether it is rainy seasons or low temperatures.
Also, if you are interested in growing and caring for many types of plants, do not hesitate to create a safe space for them. The best option is Fertri’s greenhouses, quality structures that give you control over your crops.
Some options are multi-tunnel greenhouses, gothic greenhouses or multi wide-span greenhouses. Get to know each one and choose the one that best suits your gardening or agricultural project.