Pruning Pecan Trees
Most potted pecan trees need very little initial pruning, but as the trees get older, corrective pruning may be necessary. Keep these pointers in mind:
NOTE: This is part 8 in a series of 11 articles. For a complete background on how to grow pecan trees, we recommend starting from the beginning.
- When the tree is dormant, corrective pruning consists of removing broken, interfering, dead, or disease branches.
- After cutting, seal the cut. Use a plain white latex paint over the open grain. This will seal the cut and prevent fungi or infection from developing on the cut wood.
- Remove branches that are growing toward the middle of the tree.
- If any branches are crossing, remove one of them.
- Prune low limbs that may interfere with sprays or irrigation.
- Remove limbs and vigorous shoots growing through the center, to allow light and air to penetrate.
- In the early years, if secondary limbs show narrow angles, you should remove them.
