General question for cutting back branches to build taper and ramifications.

[vp999]

Hello guys! So I want to cut back the branches hard on my broom styled Zelkova to create better taper and more ramification, do I need to put cut paste at the end ? And is this the time of the year to do that or would spring time be better ? It is full swing fall mode where I am now with over night lows in the 40s. Thanks in advance.

 

[Deep Sea Diver]

Would wait until next year.

Most folks advocate cutting back after the leaves have hardened off.

A few would rather do this operation just before the tree buds.

Cheers
DSD sends

 

[Shibui]

Either before buds open or after leaves have opened are good times to prune. Wounds heal faster when the tree is actively growing but it's easier to see exactly what you are doing with no leaves in the way.
Cutting now will leave open wounds all winter. Mostly that's OK but why take any risk unless there's some reason you won't be able to in spring? Cutting no won't speed the process up.

Cut paste or some other wound dressing does seem to help wounds heal but I only use if on cuts that are 1/2" or bigger. The tree can cope with smaller cuts and they heal over pretty quick so assistance is not usually necessary.

 

[vp999]

Thank you guys !