Rowan trees add visual interest and screens to a garden space. Their bright white spring flowers and lush red summer berries are a sight. They also attract wildlife, adding another layer of charm to the garden.
Even better, all of these benefits come in a low-maintenance package. Once a rowan tree is established, you don’t have to do much besides pruning. Prune a rowan tree properly, and it will almost certainly live a full and healthy life.
So, let’s talk about pruning rowan trees. Let’s discuss how and when to prune rowan trees.
When to prune a rowan tree
The best time to prune a rowan tree is between autumn and early winter. The tree will be dormant or preparing to go dormant during this period. Therefore, there is less foliage in your way.
Disease-bearing bugs are also dormant during this winter. So they are less likely to infect the rowan tree with diseases. These bugs are attracted to the sap from the wounds.
So, prune rowan trees in autumn or early winter, between October and February. As for light trims, like crowning, any time of the year will do. Remember to keep the trims light and use tree sealant on the wounds.
How to prune a rowan tree
Now that you know when to prune a rowan tree, let’s discuss the how. When pruning rowan trees, intentions should depend on the age and condition of the tree.
For a young rowan tree, the aim of pruning is to encourage new growth. For an established rowan tree, the goal is to remove dead, diseased, or excess limbs.
Cut the following branches
Here are the cuts you need to make when pruning rowan trees.
- Dead, damaged and diseased branches
- Reduce the crown. Cut some thick branches on all sides. Choose the branches evenly.
- Remove low branches on all sides.
How to cut a rowan tree
Make the cut about 1 to 2 inches from where the branch joins the tree trunk. That area is called the branch collar. Your cut shouldn’t be too close or too far from it. Choose a spot. Make a small cut from the underside. Then, complete it from the upper side.
Treat the wound with a tree sealant
The tree sealant will hasten healing and protect the wounds from pests and diseases.
How to look after a rowan tree
As stated in the introduction, rowan trees are relatively low maintenance. The tree will do well if planted in rich, moist, well-drained soil with partial to full shade.
Obviously, young trees are a lot more vulnerable than established ones. Plus, all pests have their pests and diseases. However, your rowan tree should do just fine if you take these two actions below.
Prune the rowan tree properly
You already have all the information you need to know about pruning rowan trees. We have covered how and when to prune rowan trees. Follow those tips.
Watch out for pests, diseases and other abnormalities
It’s better to fix every problem in its early stages. So, monitor your rowan tree. Hopefully, you will spot and resolve pest infestations, diseases and other issues before they worsen. Watch out for fire blight, canker, discolouration, silver leaf disease, honey fungus and signs of drought.
Summary
A rowan tree can survive for up to 200 years if well cared for. Once again, pruning is an essential aspect of that. Fortunately, rowan tree pruning is pretty simple in theory. Just follow the tips we’ve discussed.
Prune the rowan tree in winter. In summer, you can thin the crowns to maintain the tree’s shape. Don’t forget to make clean cuts and treat the wounds with tree sealant. Then, get rid of dead and diseased trimmings. You don’t want diseases to spread throughout your garden.
You could also hire a professional tree surgeon. It will save you time and energy, especially if you need other gardening services. Above all, it will ensure that your rowan tree gets professional care.
We can help with this. At PriceMyGarden, we connect people to professional garden services in their area. We can do the same for you. Contact us now.
FAQs
Can you hard prune a rowan tree?
Yes, you can hard prune a rowan tree. Do it in winter. Winter is when you can prune a rowan tree without issues.
Can you reduce the height of a rowan tree?
Yes, you can prune a rowan tree to reduce its height. To do this, cut back the side shoots alone. Don’t touch the main branches and central stem.
This approach keeps the rowan tree in its ideal shape and protects the main branches and central stem from damage and diseases. You can also consider growing a shorter rowan tree variety.
What should you do if your rowan tree is dying?
You can prune the dying and diseased limbs. However, your best bet is to contact a professional arborist or tree surgeon. Let them examine the rowan tree and suggest solutions.
