Gum tree species are well-known for their rapid growth abilities. This growth is both an asset and a liability, for eucalyptus trees can become unmanageable if they are left unpruned for too long. Pruning your gum trees not only helps manage the rapid growth of your trees, but will reduce leaf litter on your lawn and will improve the overall appearance of your garden. 

Pruning your gum trees too close to the onset of cold weather can put your trees at risk of dieback or disease. The best time for pruning eucalyptus is during the heat of summer. You may notice some sap bleeding, but do not be alarmed. Eucalyptus trees heal faster in the hot weather. If your pruning job leaves large wounds, you may need to apply a wound dressing to prevent infection. It is also important to note that pruning during excessively humid conditions could leave your tree susceptible to fungal infections. 

There are several ways to prune a gum tree, depending on your needs for your landscape and the species of your tree. Below are some of the ways that you could choose to prune your trees: 

• Hedge Pruning: To create a hedge shape, you will need to prune your gum trees at the end of their second season, removing about one third of their growth, and forming a pyramid shape. Each following year, you will cut back about one quarter of the growth.
• Specimen Pruning: This method helps keep eucalyptus looking attractive and is perfect if your landscape places the gum tree at the focal point of your landscape. With specimen pruning, you will not cut any lower branches for the first 2 metres of growth. You can start pruning after the second season. Many gum tree species will actually shed their own lower branches on their own. 
• Coppicing: Coppicing is a method of pruning that focuses on managing the tree’s height. You will slightly angle your cuts, removing side shoots and 31-46 cm of growth from the ground. Select the best-looking shoots, and allow those to develop while cutting back others. 
• Pollarding: Pollarding is a good pruning method for trees that are at least three to six years old. It encourages branching at the tops of trees and lower heights. 

With many pruning methods and shaping designs to consider, you have your work cut out for you! If you are interested in seeking out professional arborist help to have these projects done well on your property, give us a call at Dynamic Arborist. Our team is highly skilled and ready to serve you in all of your gum tree pruning needs.