Can an aspen tree be topped?

Can an aspen tree be topped?

Never pinch the topmost branches of an aspen. Topping, tipping or shearing an aspen tree creates an unnatural shape and may cause diseases later in the aspen’s life.

What time of year should you top trees?

winter
Generally, the best time to prune or trim trees and shrubs is during the winter months. From November through March, most trees are dormant which makes it the ideal time for the following reasons: Trees are less susceptible to insects or disease.

Should you prune an aspen tree?

Although you can trim back an aspen tree at any time, some times are better than others. It’s safest to prune when the tree’s dormant, so do major pruning during winter whenever possible, or in early spring before buds swell and put out new leaves.

How do you keep an aspen tree healthy?

Be sure to monitor your soil’s moisture level to ensure your aspens have enough water. You may also need to water aspens in winter (when there’s no snow on the ground) to keep them hydrated. Also spread mulch on the soil around trees to retain soil moisture; just be sure to keep mulch away from trees’ trunks.

What causes bumps on aspen trees?

In doing some research I learned that these swellings on the wood are cause by the “Poplar Twiggall Fly” (Hexomyza shineri). This insect burrows into the wood and as it feeds, which produces a swelling on the limbs and trunk which are called galls.

When should I prune aspen trees?

When is the best time for aspen tree pruning? If you need to carry out shaping of your aspen tree, the best time to do this is during the winter outside of its active growth cycle. This will prevent sap bleeding, which can lead to disease. If you need to carry out sucker removal, do this during late autumn or winter.

What is special about Aspen trees?

Aspen is noted for its ability to regenerate vegetatively by shoots and suckers arising along its long lateral roots. Root sprouting results in many genetically identical trees, in aggregate called a “clone”. All the trees in a clone have identical characteristics and share a root structure.

How long does an aspen tree live?

150 years
The lifespan of quaking aspens is unique. Individual quaking aspen stems usually live for about 50 to 60 years, sometimes up to 150 years in the West. However, in many cases, each tree is actually part of a much larger organism, since multiple stems can sprout from the same root system.

When is the best time to prune an aspen tree?

If you need to carry out shaping of your aspen tree, the best time to do this is during the winter outside of its active growth cycle. This will prevent sap bleeding, which can lead to disease.

Is it OK to top an aspen tree?

Do not top an aspen tree and do not try to cut branches higher than you can safely reach with a pole saw. If you are unable to cut branches that are out of your reach, hire a professional to do that part of the pruning.

Where do you plant a quaking aspen tree?

A large part of quaking aspen tree care involves selecting an appropriate planting location. Plant the trees in moist, well-drained soil. The soil should be slightly acidic for the tree to thrive. Plant aspens on northern or eastern slopes, or northern or eastern sides of your house, rather than sunnier areas.

How long does it take for an aspen tree to grow?

Aspen trees grow very quickly and are very hardy. That means that you can “furnish” a new backyard in just a few seasons if you plant aspens. Aspens are small and won’t overwhelm your yard, and sometimes they provide nice autumn color.