The trunk of my cherry tree is larger than the root stock it is joined onto, when it gets bigger, is it likely to become unstable and be more susceptible to high winds?
My guess is it's a dwarfing rootstock, which will limit the growth of the tree.
Good point, it's over 9 yrs old and only 10ft high.
I haven't pruned it since I got it, must do that soon with my new secateurs.
Quote from: dtw on February 21, 2010, 17:01:13
Good point, it's over 9 yrs old and only 10ft high.
I haven't pruned it since I got it, must do that soon with my new secateurs.
Best wait until it's in full growth or the silverleaf fungus might get a hold in the cuts before the tree can defend itself.
This applies to plums too. Some other fruits can be affected but not to the extent of needing to be pruned differently.
If you are happy with it being 10ft high then summer pruning is better still - it's more of a trimming regime that encourages the tree to grow more flowers and fruit. Look it up - best to use a good book - Googling this kind of thing can give a very weird viewpoint - not many people spend time writing out best practice. As you can see I'm the same.
Early-type pruning to reshape the tree may be necessary right after it wakes up but it has the downside of encouraging more wood.
Cheers.
PS. I don't think the tree will suffer from being literally top heavy - the top hamper or 'sail area' is far more significant in making a stake necessary but the more dwarfing the rootstock the more likely it will need some help.