removing lower branches of tree

andrewf75

We have a roughly 10m tall Robinia tree which is getting a bit out of hand and I want to remove some lower branches - crown lifting is the technical term I believe. Is it OK to do this now or should I wait til winter? There are 3 fairly obvious branches I could take out. Is there anything particular I need to be careful of to avoid damaging the tree? eg how close to the trunk to cut etc

Thanks!

Davesnave

I'd cut in about a month's time when the sap isn't rising so much, but still allowing some time for the wood to heal before winter.


I don't think the common robinia is particularly fussy, so just cut without leaving any stumpy bits.


That said, many bought the golden variety 'Frisia' where I lived, in the 1980s, and a large number of them got to a decent size and then carked-it. Mine did, so did one about 50m away and another in the nearby park. Don't think it was coincidence

andrewf75

Thanks

I think mine is the Frisia variety, very golden yellow in Autumn. I'm aware of the incidences of trees dying and in previous years mine hasn't looked great with odd dead branches, but this year it is looking really healthy. Don't want to tempt fate though, hence my caution with lopping branches off!