How to prune a Norfolk Island pine

How to prune a Norfolk Island pine

1. 01

   Choose what to remove

   For Araucaria heterophylla, the decision concerns the central leader and major branches. Leave the normal form intact, considering removal only for a competing leader or genuinely dead or damaged material.

   Norfolk Island pine needs little or no routine pruning because its natural shape can be permanently spoiled. The exception is training multiple trunks or leaders to one central leader, alongside removing dead or damaged parts.

2. 02

   Make one clean cut

   If multiple leaders are present, retain one central leader. For maintenance cuts, use a clean tool and remove only dead, damaged or diseased material. Do not top the tree or cut healthy old wood to reshape it.

3. 03

   When pruning will not help

   Avoid routine pruning and cuts that alter the leader or tiered outline. The natural shape may be permanently spoiled, and you cannot count on regrowth, restored symmetry or a safe height reduction.