As a gardening and landscaping expert, I would be happy to provide you with some guidance on how far you can cut back your mugo pines without causing damage. Mugo pines are known for their dense growth habit, and they can easily crowd out other plantings if not properly maintained. Pruning them back can help to control their size and prevent them from overwhelming your other plants.
When it comes to pruning mugo pines, it is important to be cautious and avoid excessive pruning, as this can lead to stress and potential damage to the tree. However, with proper technique and timing, you can safely prune these pines to maintain their shape and size.
One technique commonly used for pruning mugo pines is called candle pruning. This involves removing a portion of the expanding new tip growth, which is referred to as candles, in the spring. By pruning out 1/2 to 2/3 of the candles, you can help to minimize excessive new growth and keep the tree more compact.
To perform candle pruning, wait until the candles have fully elongated but before they begin to open and develop needles. This is typically in late spring or early summer, depending on your specific climate. Using sharp, clean pruning shears, carefully remove the desired portion of each candle, making the cut just above a set of lateral buds or branches. This will encourage the tree to produce new growth from these buds, resulting in a denser, more compact form.
It is important to note that mugo pines have a limited ability to regenerate from old wood, so it is best to avoid cutting back into older, woody branches. Instead, focus on pruning the new growth each year to maintain the desired size and shape of the tree.
After pruning, be sure to provide your mugo pines with proper care, including regular watering and fertilization, to support their recovery and encourage healthy growth. Additionally, monitor the trees for any signs of stress or disease following pruning, and take appropriate action if needed.
You can safely prune your mugo pines by removing 1/2 to 2/3 of the expanding new tip growth, or candles, each spring. This will help to minimize excessive new growth and maintain the size and shape of the tree. Remember to use proper technique and timing, and provide the trees with adequate care after pruning.
