Pruning Asoke Trees

[qualtrough]

I have some Asoke trees, the thin, tall trees that at a distance might be mistaken for Lombardy pines. Right now this row is long and thin and bending over at the top, which is about 8 feet or so. I really only need them to be about 6 feet. If I cut the tops off at 6 feet or so will they continue to develop and get thicker trunks, or just remain thin? Thanks in advance to anyone with advice.

[drtreelove]

You will be creating a funky appearance, with unnatural form imposed by interrupted taper of the main stem, with result of the heading cuts producing multiple sprouts at the top instead of a naturally tapered single dominant leader.  Topping creates a higher maintenance requirement, but at the size and age of your trees it will be manageable if you stick to the 2 foot reduction, then manage the regrowth with annual thinning and shaping.  If you expect to keep false ashoka trees at 6 feet indefinitely, you will have a disappointing challenge, and you will compromise not only the appearance, but the health and longevity.  I prefer to enhance the natural form and beauty of trees, but unfortunately a hedgerow is a quite common practice with this species.

 

They will continue to develop and increase in caliper (stem thickness), but that will also depend on your soil fertility and water management. If you don't water appropriately during the dry season, fertilize and mulch, the trees will have minimal growth. Don

 

 

[qualtrough]

Thanks very much for your reply!