Guava trees are a popular fruit tree among gardeners and farmers as they produce delicious guava fruits in abundance. These tropical trees require proper care and maintenance to ensure healthy growth, maximum yield, and longevity. One of the essential practices in caring for guava trees is pruning. Pruning helps remove dead, diseased or damaged branches while promoting new growth and better fruit production.
In this article, we will discuss how to prune guava tree properly step by step.
When to Prune Guava Tree
The ideal time to prune a guava tree is during its dormant season, which usually falls between late winter and early spring months when the tree sheds its leaves. This period allows the plant enough time to recover before new growth begins with the arrival of warmer weather.
Tools Needed
Before you start pruning your guava tree make sure you have all necessary tools needed such as:
– Clean sharp pruning shears
– Long-handled loppers
– Handsaw
– Ladder (if required)
Step-by-step guide on how to prune your Guava Trees:
1) Remove Deadwood – Start by removing any broken or dead branches using a handsaw or long-handled loppers close to where they meet an adjacent branch or stem.
2) Cut Crossing Branches – Crossed branches that rub against each other can cause wounds that leave openings for pests and diseases; hence it’s vital first cut one off completely at their base.
3) Trim Overgrown Shoots – If some shoots look like they’re overgrowing from the main trunk then trim them back as well so there’s less competition for nutrients going towards other parts of your plant.
4) Cut Backside Branches – Thin out dense areas by trimming side stems growing too close together within clusters along with those growing behind larger segments with limited sunlight access.
5) Shape The Canopy – Use a ladder if needed but make vertical cuts just above the lateral branches on main stems to reduce the height of trees and encourage a bushier growth pattern.
Tips For Pruning Guava Trees
– Always cut at an angle, slanting downwards away from the bud, to discourage water accumulation.
– Avoid cutting off more than one-third of a branch or stem at a time.
– Remove any suckers that sprout up around the base of your tree as they can also drain nutrients from your plant.
– Don’t prune during rainy periods as this makes it easier for pests and diseases to infect pruning wounds.
In conclusion, pruning is essential in maintaining healthy guava trees that produce high-quality fruits. By following these steps and tips, you can help shape your guava tree into an attractive, healthy specimen with increased fruit production year after year. Remember always use clean tools when pruning; cleaning them before each session will prevent spreading diseases between plants.
