To ensure better harvest year after year, it is important to prune trees. When it comes to mango trees, their branches should be trimmed during the winter season, so that they yield good quality fruits in the following year. Moreover, the fruits will be within easy reach, because the process of pruning reduces the height of the tree, considerably. It also ensures that the inner parts of the tree get adequate sunlight and air, so that its leaves and fruits grow well. Check out the instructions given below and learn how to prune a mango tree.
Pruning of Mango Trees
Things Required
- Pruning Saw
- Pruning Shears
- Rubber Gloves
- Safety Ropes (optional)
Procedure
- The best time to prune mango trees is in the winter season, after the production of fruits. Trim the tree right after the harvest, at the end of December. This ensures a good quality crop in the upcoming season. Middle of May, the period before flowering, is also suitable for pruning the mango trees.
- In order to trim down the tree, remove the low-hanging branches first. This process is referred to as 'skirting'. This ensures that the branches that are hanging out do not get in the way of fertilizing the tree.
- The next step is to remove the branches from inside the mango tree. Be careful to select only those branches that cause congestion on the inner portion of the tree. By doing this, the tree will be exposed to plenty of sunlight and air, which will facilitate the growth of good quality fruits.
- Finally, it is the time to get rid of the dead or diseased limbs of the tree. Make use of pruning saw to cut the limbs that prevent the spread of flower or infect the fruits.
Tips
- Always wear rubber gloves while pruning the mango tree.
- When you are trimming the top section of the tree, it is suggested to tie safety ropes on your waist and shoulders.
- Ensure that you have someone present with you, while pruning, in case you fall from the tree.
- After pruning the tree, apply a little amount of pesticide on all the cuts. This will avoid the chances of pest infestation on the newly pruned mango tree.