Trees

11/19/2011 - 03:50

I'm sure someone here will advise (hopefully)............I have some 30/40 false acacia trees (the ones with the spikes - ouch !), they have grown in the last 5 years to some 15/20metres high. Their main job is to hold a bank in place, but they also provide some protection from the elements by acting as very tall 'hedge'How short should I cut them down to without effecting their rooting system ? I also want them to grow back to a more manageable height. My neighbour (local, lived here all his life) is suggesting taking them down to less than a metre high (!)This would be great and also very easy to manage in the future, but I'm concerned for their welfare ! Any advice would be greatly received,S

Comment

Sprostoni, just as usual, your neighbour is right. You can prune false acacias and you can do it hard, but you must do it quickly or wait until summer to avoid bleeding. Also, the pruned trees may produce less flowers. In any case, use protective clothes as the plant is toxic and keep children and animals away. I agree with you that you should not remove the trees as they are fulfilling an important task: to hold the bank and they are great at doing that. You have some useful information here: Also, do a search here using the words "false acacia". We have discussed these trees in the past. Good luck! You have a big job ahead of you.

I almost sent you a pm on this as I KNEW that you would be able to help, but thought that the Forum (and possibly the gardening section) would be a more visible option for others, Thanks a lot............I'll be 'busy' for the next few days ..... S