How to Prune Terebinth tree?

(Pistacia terebinthus)

Terebinth tree, also known as Terpentine tree, Terebinth pistachio

This Mediterranean native thrives in arid climates and is valued for its ornamental and medicinal uses. For terebinth tree, pruning should focus on removing dead or diseased wood, thinning to improve air circulation, and shaping for aesthetic purposes. Prune terebinth tree in late winter before the onset of new growth. This timing allows terebinth tree to heal quickly and supports vigorous spring development. Regular pruning helps maintain plant health, encourages fruit production, and prolongs its lifespan.

What Are the Benefits of Pruning Terebinth Tree?

Pruning terebinth tree stimulates more harvest by redirecting energy to flower and fruit production. It encourages the plant to grow more vigorously, fostering a stronger structure. Regular pruning also helps maintain the desired shape and size, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of the tree.

What Is the Best Time for Pruning Terebinth Tree?

Winter

Pruning terebinth tree in late winter is advantageous because the plant is dormant during this period. This timing prevents sap loss and reduces the risk of fungal infections or pest infestation, as open wounds heal faster. Moreover, the absence of foliage during the plant's dormant season offers easier visibility of the plant's structure, allowing for more precise cuts. Additionally, pruning before the onset of spring growth spurs rejuvenation, leading to a healthier and more robust terebinth tree during the growing season as energy is redirected to new growth. It also minimizes the impact on flowering since terebinth tree typically flowers on new growth that appears after pruning. With these considerations, late winter emerges as the most beneficial season for pruning terebinth tree to enhance its health and vitality.

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What Tools Do I Need to Prune Terebinth Tree?

Hand Pruners

Ideal for cutting thin branches and twigs of terebinth tree, typically up to ¾ inches in diameter. Ergonomically designed bypass pruners can make clean cuts and are suitable for shaping the tree and removing small, dead or diseased branches.

Lopping Shears

These are appropriate for branches between 1½ to 2 inches in diameter, typically found on young and maturing terebinth tree specimens. They provide leverage and have long handles to reach higher branches without the need for a ladder.

Pruning Saws

For the mature terebinth tree with thicker branches exceeding 2 inches in diameter, a pruning saw with a curved blade is recommended to make clean cuts of large branches. Always use saws with sharp teeth to avoid tearing the bark and ensure smooth healing.

Pole Pruners or Pole Saws

When the terebinth tree has grown tall and the canopy is out of reach, pole pruners and saws allow for the safe pruning of higher branches without the use of a ladder. Choose a pole pruner with a bypass cutting blade and saw attachment for versatility.

Hedge Shears

Not recommended for terebinth tree as they are generally used for shaping hedges and may cause damage to the larger, woody stems of terebinth tree. Instead, use the aforementioned tools suited to the specific branch sizes.

Safety Equipment

Always wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and a hard hat when pruning terebinth tree to prevent injuries from falling branches and debris. Safety should not be overlooked.

How to Prune Terebinth Tree

Clean And Sharpen Tools

Begin with cleaning and sharpening your pruning tools to ensure clean cuts that will help terebinth tree heal faster and reduce the risk of spreading diseases.

Inspect And Assess

Carefully inspect terebinth tree to identify dead or diseased branches. Look for branches that have no leaves, are discolored, or have signs of infection such as cankers or unusual growths.

Prune Dead Branches

Using sharp shears, prune dead branches at the point where they meet healthy wood, making cuts at a downward angle to allow water to run off and prevent disease infiltration.

Remove Diseased Branches

Cut away diseased branches well below the affected areas to prevent the spread of disease. Sterilize your cutting tools after each cut by wiping them with a solution of bleach or alcohol to eliminate potential pathogens.

Sanitation And Disposal

Clean up all pruned material and dispose of it appropriately to prevent the possibility of disease lingering in the area around terebinth tree. Do not add diseased material to your compost pile as it could infect other plants.

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Common Pruning Mistakes with Terebinth Tree

Over Pruning

Cutting back too much of terebinth tree in a single pruning session can stress the tree and cause weak growth or a reduction in its overall health.

Improper Cut Placement

Making cuts too close to the trunk can damage the branch collar, leading to improper healing and potential disease entry. Conversely, leaving a stub can also hamper healing and encourage rot.

Tearing Bark

When pruning larger branches of terebinth tree, there is a risk of tearing the bark if proper undercutting techniques aren't used, which can lead to long-term damage.

Tool Misuse

Using dull or dirty pruning tools can create jagged cuts that are more prone to infection and don't heal cleanly.

Neglecting Disease Management

Failing to remove all diseased or pest-infested parts of terebinth tree can lead to further spread to healthy parts of the tree.

Wrong Pruning Angle

Cutting branches at an incorrect angle can prevent water from properly running off the cut surface, which can lead to decay.

Common Pruning Tips for Terebinth Tree

Sanitize Tools

Clean pruning tools before and after use to prevent the spread of disease to or from terebinth tree.

Three Cut Method

For larger branches, use the three-cut method to prevent bark tearing. This includes a notch cut on the underside of the branch, a relief cut further out, and a final cut at the branch collar.

Cut At The Branch Collar

Make clean cuts at the branch collar, ensuring not to cut into it but also not to leave a large stub, to promote fast healing.

Selective Pruning

Choose which branches to prune selectively, focusing on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.

Gradual Pruning

Gradually prune overgrown terebinth tree over multiple seasons to prevent shock, rather than doing it all at once.

Sharp Tools

Use sharp, well-maintained pruning tools to make precise cuts, which help terebinth tree to heal faster and more effectively.

Wound Dressing Avoidance

Refrain from using wound dressing on pruning cuts, as it can inhibit healing and can be more harmful than beneficial for terebinth tree.

Thin From Within

Thin out some of the inner branches to allow more light and air circulation through the canopy, benefitting the overall health and vigor of terebinth tree.