Pruning alder- expert thoughts needed

[FIFTYFEETUP]

I have been asked to reduce and thin the crown on two mature 60' alders bordering two properties. After a prolonged dispute between two neighbours, solicitors letters have finally resolved this.

This is the first time I have worked on an alder, and would be grateful for any advice, I have been asked to start as soon as possible, but I'm led to believe the winter is the best time to prune alder if at all, Any advice is appreciated, many thanks Andy.

[RobArb]

Is the alder straight up, like a ladder?

 

Are there any points to reduce the height to, without "topping" the tree?

 

Will a reduction on its own not suffice as usually the growth on an alder its out at the tips.

 

Sometimes pics tell a thousand words:biggrin:

 

Sent from Rob's GalaxySII

[FIFTYFEETUP]

Both neighbours have agreed on a height of approx 40' through their solicitors!!! what's the matter with some folks!!! Yes, both trees are fairly symmetrical, lower crown radius approx 30', mid crown about the same, top 30% runs to top point at about 60' above ground.

[Cracker]

Wherever you cut an alder, dozens of new shoots appear and grow about 100cm a year. Try telling them this. Nowt queer as folk.

[David Goss]

On the bonus side Alder is easy to cut

Cant really give any advice if we cant see the trees mate:001_huh:

[Mesterh]

Have never heard that its best to prune alder in the winter tbh.

 

I would do it now, and as already mentioned it will soon grow back!

[Stereo]

You cut the top off an Alder you are going to have a funny looking tree, just as tall in a year's time.

[Skysthelimit]

The epicormic growth off a cut Alder is phonomenal after 12-18 months. At least its not your tree.!!

[Tony Croft aka hamadryad]

epi slows after restoring leaf quantity, as with ALL trees, the reduction will make it bushey, but at a 20ft reduction it will be 10 years before its back to current hieght, thinning a bad idea, reduce well do alders.