Greek fir: when and how to prune

Greek fir: when to prune it?

JFMAMJJASOND

Rarely needed. Do small corrections in February–March, before the buds break.

What else to prune in those months? February · March

Greek fir: how to prune it?

1. Remove dead, broken or diseased branches back to the trunk or a healthy side branch.
2. If there are two competing leaders, cut out the weaker one so that a single straight leader remains.
3. If you want to walk under the tree, gradually remove the lowest branches, a few each year, flush with the trunk.
4. Do not cut into the top or prune the tree into shape: firs do not regrow from bare wood.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: February–March.
• Never remove more than about a quarter of the crown at once. Better a little every year.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in March can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Algerian fir
• Siberian fir
• European silver fir
• Nordmann fir
• Apple tree
• Beech

Plant profile: Greek fir · Pruning calendar and basic rules