Spring is a great time to check in on your trees. Proper pruning and care not only keeps them healthy but also ensures they grow into strong, beautiful specimens that enhance your garden for years to come.



1. Why Pruning Matters
Remove dead or damaged branches
Encourage strong structure and healthy growth
Improve airflow and sunlight penetration
Reduce risk of disease or pest infestations
2. When to Prune
Late winter to early spring – before buds break, ideal for structural pruning.
After flowering – for flowering trees like Purple Leaf Plums, prune lightly after bloom to shape and maintain form.
3. How to Prune
Use clean, sharp tools
Remove branches at their base, not flush with the trunk
Avoid over-pruning – aim to remove no more than 20–30% of the canopy at a time
Focus on crossing branches, weak joints, and any branches growing inward
More Tree Care Tips
Watering: Deep watering during dry spells encourages strong root growth
Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilising: Use a balanced tree fertiliser in early spring for growth and flowering
Pest & Disease Monitoring: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or fungal diseases, and act quickly if you spot any
Resources / References:
Arboriculture Australia – Pruning Guidelines







