Coast redwood: when and how to prune

Coast redwood: when to prune it?

JFMAMJJASOND

Pruning is usually not needed: it grows into a conical shape by itself. Do the small jobs in April.

What else to prune in those months? April

Coast redwood: how to prune it?

1. Remove dead or damaged branches back to the trunk.
2. If there are two leaders, choose one and remove the other in spring, while the tree is young.
3. After frost damage, wait until May–June before removing brown shoots: it often regrows.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: April.
• 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 April 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

• Fig tree
• Holly
• Olive tree
• Peach tree

Plant profile: Coast redwood · Pruning calendar and basic rules