Image Source - TREES, ASSOCIATES, and SHIGO (2 CD set).
Image Source - TREES, ASSOCIATES, and SHIGO
(2 CD set).
Photo on left is correct
multi-stem pollarding by the Swiss.
Pollarding, or high coppicing,
are the terms given to the practice of regulating size and shape of a tree or
woody shrub. To be done correctly, the desired shape is determined when
the tree is young - 100% dynamic mass. Which means, every place it can have a living parenchyma cell it does. It
also has a green cortex along the entire trunk. The framework can be a single
stem or a great variety of shapes. Once the framework is
established, all sprouts are cut back to the framework every year.
In some cases where flowers are desired, a few sprouts with flower buds are left
on the framework. The key feature of this practice is to establish the
framework when the tree is
young, and to cut back to the framework every year, or every other year on
selected branches bearing flowers. Many types of tree mutilation have
been called pollarding. Topping large trees is
not pollarding, it is a crime against nature.
Proper
pollarding requires constant attention.
Proper pollarding starts with proper
training cuts. Do not wound the branch collar, the swollen area at the
base of a sprout, or leave stubs. Know the design you want before you
start. Start with a tree species that lends itself to that design (e.g.,
London Plane, Sycamore, Linden).
