When to prune?

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Loon AuGres, MI(Zone 5b) Mar 21, 2001

I bought a new tri colored beech tree and planted it last July. It was a ten year old specimen. It has some crossed branches that need to be pruned out and I'm not sure when it should be done. I was told that it should wait until it's rooted in. Should I do it now or when? Also, does this variety of tree need to be fertilized? I do fertilize the lawn around it.

I'm in zone 5 Michigan

Post #2641
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Pete2 Richmond Hill, GA(Zone 8b) Mar 21, 2001

Loon, I found out something interesting about beech trees. DO NOT prune them in the Spring. If you do, it will increase certain disease and insect problems. I would prune it now before it buds out. Your tree does not need to be fertilized if it is located in a lawn that you regularly fertilize. :)

Terri

Post #60609
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Loon AuGres, MI(Zone 5b) Mar 21, 2001

Thanks Pete. I'll have to look to see if it has buds on it or not. If it does, I'll just wait until next year in the winter months when it's dormant.

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Pete2 Richmond Hill, GA(Zone 8b) Mar 21, 2001

Brenda, just so long as it's not busting out all over with new growth you should be safe and can do it now. :)

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louisa Troy, VA(Zone 7a) Mar 22, 2001

I could be wrong about this but......I believe the reason for not pruning it in the Spring has something to do with the sap rising. I believe the sap oozes when it's pruned I'm sure the more knowledgeable will be able to tell you. Perhaps Sunflower.

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Pete2 Richmond Hill, GA(Zone 8b) Mar 22, 2001

You're right, Louisa. Lots of trees "bleed" when pruned that time of year. :)

Terri

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