Cut trees in frost

Pruning fruit trees in winter

Depending on the growth and flowering behavior, trees are cut either in spring, after flowering, in the autumn or even in winter. Fruit trees in particular should be pruned vigorously between January and February, as this is the period during which the formation of Fruitwood promotes. In principle, pruning is also possible in autumn, but shortening the tree in autumn tends to stimulate increased growth - which in turn hinders fruit formation. Ergo, the winter pruning is better suited to hope for a rich harvest.

When to cut in winter - and when not

However, looking at the calendar is not enough to choose the best time. In addition, you have to wait for the right weather, because cutting is not allowed in frost, snow or rain. A day is ideal when

• it is warmer than minus five degrees Celsius
• it is dry and calm
• the sun hides behind clouds
• there is no snow

The problem with one cut at frosty temperatures is that this can disrupt the sensitive cold protection system of a tree. The branches and twigs are surrounded by insulating bark that consists of two layers: the outer bark represents a shield to the outside, while the underlying Cambrian protects the interior of the tree from the cold preserved. If the tree is cut now, the exposed wounds threaten to freeze to death and the affected branches / twigs can become brittle. This in turn hinders healthy new shoots in spring and promotes the growth of mushrooms.

Catching up the winter pruning

If a winter cut is not possible due to unfavorable temperatures, you can make up for it. When is the best time to do this depends on the tree species. However, you should make the pruning during the budding / growth phase, as this will allow wounds to close better.