Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →

How to Prune a Sycamore Tree

road between sycamores image by Georgy Shafeev from Fotolia.com

The sycamore is a large, hardy, fast-growing tree with an expansive root system. Although it is a low-maintenance tree, it does require regular watering, fertilizing and pruning, as well as inspection for pest infestations and disease. Proper pruning carried out on an annual basis will help keep the tree's growth under control and maintain its shape. Rather than restrict growth, pruning keeps the tree growing the way you want.

Prune at the right time of year. Prune the tree back before the first springtime buds appear. Wait until fall to remove any live branches, to help the tree as it goes dormant for the winter and give it a boost in the springtime.

Remove diseased or weak branches as soon as you see them; broken limbs can cause severe trauma to the tree. Fast removal of dead branches will keep the tree strong and thriving.

Prune your sycamore tree's branches flush with the branch "collar." Cut each branch right to the notch of the original trunk to leave sufficient area for it to scar over. This is important because open wounds on the tree are easy targets for infestation, which you want to keep to a minimum.

  • Prune at the right time of year.
  • Cut each branch right to the notch of the original trunk to leave sufficient area for it to scar over.

Treat any wounds from pruning by covering the area with tar to repel pests and prevent it from drying out.

Related Articles

How to Care for a Corkscrew Willow Tree
How to Care for a Corkscrew Willow Tree
How to Prune Sweetgum
How to Prune Sweetgum
How to Prune a Water Oak Tree
How to Prune a Water Oak Tree
Magnolia Trees
Magnolia Trees
Mulberry Tree Fungus
Mulberry Tree Fungus
How to Trim a Eucalyptus Tree
How to Trim a Eucalyptus Tree
Drought Tolerant Ornamental Trees
Drought Tolerant Ornamental Trees
Care of the Ann Magnolia Tree
Care of the Ann Magnolia Tree
How to Grow Aspen Trees in California
How to Grow Aspen Trees in California
How to Prune a Russian Olive Tree
How to Prune a Russian Olive Tree
How to Kill a Locust Tree
How to Kill a Locust Tree
What is the Growth Rate of a Holly Tree?
What is the Growth Rate of a Holly Tree?
Garden Guides
×