Pruning Betula nigra

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Phrago Coldwater, MI(Zone 5b) Jul 09, 2006

3 years ago I planted two clumps of River Birch in large sweeping border gardens that I created around my house in Coldwater to help block the wind, which is constant. Both have grown remarkably well, and I am pleased with their vigor and carefree nature. One of them has produce strong lateral branches toward the lower sections of the trunks. I think this is very attractive and would like to leave most of them, as I like to let trees grow the way they want to without pruning them up, if there's room. And Birches tend to prune themselves over time anyway. But a couple of these branches are growing into some of the other shrubs in this border. Everything is well spaced and moving the other shrubs would distort the design. I would like to remove about three of these branches and I am concerned with bleeding. Earlier this spring I attempted to remove one branch and it bled profusely. I know that Birches bleed but this was shocking! When would be the appropriate time to prune these trees...

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Decumbent Cincinnati, OH(Zone 6b) Jul 09, 2006

Now.

Scott

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StarhillForest Illinois, IL(Zone 5b) Jul 09, 2006

I agree -- now, or maybe a little later this summer, but not during a new growth flush and not in late winter. And if it bleeds a little, just turn your head away and innocently pretend your little brother did it.
Guy S.

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Phrago Coldwater, MI(Zone 5b) Jul 10, 2006

Thanks Scott and Guy, I was hoping that I could do it before fall. Do you think that the other lateral branches that remain will survive over time or will they be rejected as the tree gets bigger? Should I remove them now and avoid larger scars latter?

Post #2489041
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StarhillForest Illinois, IL(Zone 5b) Jul 11, 2006

I wouldn't remove too much at once, especially during the peak of the growing season. If they don't get shaded out they should last indefinitely. Most lower limbs are shaded out by those above them or by surrounding trees. The real question probably is: do you want them there?
Guy S.

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