Mugo Pine

[somegeek]

Hey folks - I've picked up a few $5 Mugos at my local big box store to cut my teeth on. I've lurked for a bit and checked out the archived Mugo threads. Looking for some advice regarding pruning at this point for the trunk line on this tree. After pulling back the soil, I found nice base to work with.

The green line is the trunk line I'd like to keep. Red is a branch I was pondering removing. I know this has several years to go but curious as to what I should remove at this point to redirect energy where needed and which I should keep as sacrifices or permanent branches?

Appreciate any input.

somegeek

 

[Klytus]

In the meantime these branches could be pulled down out of the way.

 

[jk_lewis]

I dunno about the green line, but the red line in the first pic can certainly go. Cut it flush (then concave) with the trunk.

You might consider removing some of the needles.

 

[misfit11]

Is this the right time of year to be pruning pines? I have always heard that you should prune pines in the late summer/early fall in order to reduce sap loss. Any input from the senior members?