Smoke tree (cotinus) can be kept small through regular pruning. This beautiful plant is known for its unique and eye-catching foliage, which resembles billowing clouds of smoke. While it naturally grows into a spreading shrub or small tree, it is amenable to sculpting and can be trained to maintain a smaller size.
To keep a smoke tree small, pruning must be started and continued annually. This is because smoke trees have a strong tendency to revert to their natural growth habit if left unpruned. Without regular maintenance, they will spread high and wide, losing their compact shape.
When pruning a smoke tree to keep it small, it is important to be mindful of the desired shape and size. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. This will improve the overall health and appearance of the plant. Next, selectively prune branches that are growing in unwanted directions or crossing over each other. This will help maintain an open and airy structure.
To create a smaller shrub, prune the smoke tree more aggressively. Cut back the branches by about one-third of their length, focusing on thinning out the plant and reducing its overall size. This will encourage new growth and help maintain a compact form.
If you prefer a small tree shape, prune the smoke tree with a more selective approach. Remove lower branches to create a clear trunk, allowing the tree to develop a more upright growth habit. Thin out the upper branches as needed, but avoid removing too much foliage to ensure the tree retains its natural beauty.
It is important to note that pruning should be done during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will minimize stress on the plant and allow it to recover more quickly.
In my personal experience as a gardener, I have successfully kept smoke trees small through regular pruning. By carefully shaping and maintaining the plant, I have been able to create both compact shrubs and small trees that fit perfectly in various garden settings. However, it is crucial to stay committed to annual pruning, as neglecting this maintenance can lead to the smoke tree reverting to its natural growth habit.
To summarize, smoke trees can be kept small through regular pruning. By starting pruning early and maintaining it annually, it is possible to sculpt the plant into a smaller shrub or small tree. However, it is important to be consistent with pruning to prevent the smoke tree from reverting to its natural spreading growth habit.
