Q. If a dwarf Alberta spruce sprouts a branch that looks like a regular spruce can it be safely pruned off without harming the tree?
If a dwarf Alberta spruce sprouts a branch that looks like a regular spruce can it be safely pruned off without harming the tree?
A.
Generally speaking, yes. You can prune away almost anything without harming the plant substantially. However, you may have cosmetic issues. Many conifers do not like being pruned hard. In other words, they may not regrow new foliage if you prune into the older, harder wood.
If you prune too much, you may have a 'hole' in your tree until the surrounding foliage grows and covers it up. Our general guideline for conifers is to prune lightly, but more often, sometimes 2-3 times per year. In your situation, you may not have a choice. It might be simply be better to cut away the offending wood. If in doubt, bring in a picture to the nursery and have one of our horticulturists have a look at it.
Posted: 12/12/2017 12:00:00 AM
Author: Mike
Location: Langley, British Columbia, Canada
Tags: pruning, alberta spruce, sport, picea conica