You could also use specialty hand pruners made specifically for avocado trees, which have rounded tips to keep from damaging any of the fruit.
Make any major cuts clean and keep them in line with the natural contour of the trunk. [3] X Research source
For example, you could wear a long-sleeved T-shirt, some old jeans, sneakers, and a wide-brimmed straw hat.
To promote overall regrowth, prune back branches in the spring. [7] X Research source Summertime pruning promotes regrowth length and makes the tree grow wider and taller. [8] X Research source
Be careful not create too many open areas in the canopy, though, as this could expose the tree’s major branches to heavy sunlight. [11] X Research source A conical or pyramidal tree shape is best for even sun exposure. [12] X Research source
Aim for a symmetrical conical shape, which provides the best amount of sun exposure. Re-shaping will likely make fruit yield drop drastically that year, but it should stimulate fruit growth in 2 years. Remember to be extremely careful with this kind of heavy pruning! If you prune too much, you can permanently stunt the tree’s fruit growth.
For example, if you prune several branches on one side of the tree, it may stunt fruit growth on that side. When the fruit grows, the tree’s weight will be unevenly balanced and make it more susceptible to strong wind and harsh weather. [15] X Research source
Be extra vigilant with trees purchased from nurseries, which will likely have a good deal of the roots removed. This process may take 3-4 years to complete, but the slow and steady approach will help reduce stress on the tree. [18] X Trustworthy Source University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension program of the University of California system devoted to educating and improving local communities Go to source
Although it may be tempting to cut away dead wood at any time of the year, remember that frost damage can sometimes make a branch look dead. Wait for the new growth to begin in spring or summer before determining whether or not the branch needs to be pruned. [19] X Research source
If you live in a particularly sunny area, paint a thin layer of white latex paint diluted with water over the cuts to protect them from sun exposure. [22] X Trustworthy Source University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension program of the University of California system devoted to educating and improving local communities Go to source Avocado trees usually take 3 years to grow and produce fruit again after rejuvenation pruning. [23] X Research source Since this type of pruning can permanently damage or kill your tree, it is not recommended for beginners. Unless you have experience with avocado trees, have your rejuvenation pruning done by a professional service.
You can perform light preventive pruning any time of the year. [25] X Trustworthy Source University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension program of the University of California system devoted to educating and improving local communities Go to source
For example, watch for horizontal branches forming close to the ground. These branches will grow to block your access at the base of the tree, so cut these back at their base as soon as possible. [30] X Research source
