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How to Prune Monkey puzzle tree?
(Araucaria araucana)
Monkey puzzle tree, also known as Chilean pine, Chile nut, Parana pine, Pewen
Native to Chile and Argentina, monkey puzzle tree is an ancient conifer with a distinctive umbrella-like canopy and tough, triangular leaves. Pruning is minimal, focused on removing dead or damaged branches, which promotes plant health and maintains shape. Best performed during winter when the tree is dormant. Care must be taken to avoid cutting into the whorled branch arrangement unique to monkey puzzle tree, as this can disrupt its natural growth pattern and compromise its aesthetic.
pruning

What Are the Benefits of Pruning Monkey Puzzle Tree?

What Is the Best Time for Pruning Monkey Puzzle Tree?

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What Tools Do I Need to Prune Monkey Puzzle Tree?

Long-handled pruners
Due to the height and structure of monkey puzzle tree, long-handled pruners are essential for reaching higher branches without the use of a ladder.
Loppers
When dealing with thicker branches that are within reach, loppers provide the necessary leverage to make clean cuts without damaging the trunk or neighboring branches.
Pole saw
For the uppermost limbs or branches that are too thick for pruners, a pole saw offers the extended reach and cutting power needed for monkey puzzle tree.
Gloves
Protective gloves are particularly important when pruning monkey puzzle tree due to its sharp foliage that can easily cause injury.
Safety goggles
Working with monkey puzzle tree can dislodge debris, and safety goggles are crucial to protect the eyes during the pruning process.

How to Prune Monkey Puzzle Tree

Step1: Identify Dead or Damaged Branches
Inspect monkey puzzle tree closely to identify the dead branches and damaged limbs that need to be pruned. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before the new growth starts, but dead or damaged branches can be removed any time of the year.
Step2: Sterilize Pruning Tools
Clean and sterilize your pruning tools before starting to prevent the spread of disease. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water to sterilize the tools.
Step3: Wear Protective Gear
Wear protective clothing, gloves, and safety glasses to protect yourself from monkey puzzle tree's sharp needles and falling debris during the pruning process.
Step4: Prune Dead Branches
Begin with dead branches. Make your cuts at the point where the dead branch meets the healthy stem, but avoid cutting into the healthy wood. Use a saw for branches thicker than 1.5 inches and pruners for smaller branches.
Step5: Trim Damaged Limbs
Move on to damaged limbs. If a limb is partially damaged, trim off only the damaged portion. Cut back to a point of healthy wood, preferably just above a lower branch or bud.
Step6: Make Angled Cuts
For both dead branches and damaged limbs, aim for a clean, angled cut that slopes away from the bud, allowing water to run off and reducing the risk of disease.
Step7: Minimize Pruning
Avoid excessive pruning of monkey puzzle tree. This species does not require shaping and responds poorly to topping or heavy cutting back. Remove only what is necessary for the health of the plant.
Step8: Dispose of Pruned Material
Discard the pruned branches and limbs properly. Do not leave them near monkey puzzle tree, as decaying wood can attract pests and disease.
Step9: Check for Stress or Disease
Monitor the tree for signs of stress or disease following pruning. If you notice unusual symptoms, consult a professional arborist for guidance.
Step10: Water After Pruning
Water monkey puzzle tree deeply and thoroughly after pruning to help it recover, especially if the weather is dry.
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Post-Pruning Care for Monkey Puzzle Tree

After pruning monkey puzzle tree, immediately ensure clean cuts to prevent disease. Manage light exposure by placing monkey puzzle tree in bright, indirect light to reduce stress. Maintain stable humidity and temperature, ideally between 65-75°F with moderate humidity levels. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support recovery, avoiding over-fertilization. Regularly inspect monkey puzzle tree for signs of stress, such as wilting or discolored foliage, and infection indicators like sap oozing. If symptoms appear, isolate monkey puzzle tree and consult a specialist for appropriate treatment.

Common Pruning Mistakes with Monkey Puzzle Tree

Severe Over-pruning Damaging Growth
Over-pruning, which can severely damage or stress monkey puzzle tree, leading to poor growth or disease susceptibility.
Improper Cutting at Trunk or Collar
Pruning too close to the trunk or cutting into the branch collar, which can create wounds that struggle to heal, making monkey puzzle tree vulnerable to infections.
Using Blunt or Dirty Pruning Tools
Using blunt or dirty pruning tools, which can tear branches and introduce pathogens to monkey puzzle tree, potentially causing health issues for the tree.
Unnecessary Removal of Structural Branches
Removing branches that form the main structure of monkey puzzle tree unnecessarily, which can diminish the natural shape and health of the tree.
Ignoring monkey puzzle tree's Growth Patterns During Pruning
Pruning without understanding the growth pattern of monkey puzzle tree, which can inhibit its unique habit and lead to a less visually appealing form.

Common Pruning Tips for Monkey Puzzle Tree

Use Sharp, Sterilized Tools for Clean Cuts
Maintain sharp and sterilized pruning tools to make clean cuts and reduce the risk of spreading disease to monkey puzzle tree.
Prune Only Dead or Damaged Branches
Remove only dead, diseased, or damaged branches to preserve the health and natural form of monkey puzzle tree without compromising its unique architecture.
Prune at an Angle, Protecting Branch Collar
Cut branches at a slight angle, away from the trunk, and avoid cutting into the branch collar to promote quicker healing and prevent disease entry.
Preserve Leading Shoot for Strong Growth
Identify and preserve the leading shoot, especially in younger monkey puzzle tree, to maintain a strong vertical form and eliminate competition from other vertical shoots.
Minimize Healthy Branch Removal; Prune Sparingly
Minimize the removal of healthy branches and limit pruning to what is necessary for maintaining the tree's health and safety since monkey puzzle tree doesn't respond well to heavy or severe pruning.
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