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Pruning guide

How to prune breadfruit

Best time
Late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant; a second light tidy in late summer is acceptable
How often
Annually for height and shape management
Technique
Remove dead, diseased, or overly dominant branches hogging light from the sides and top. Aim for a rounded, open canopy rather than topping the tree flat. Never remove more than one-third of the canopy in a single session. Prune in the cooler part of the day to slow sap flow and use sharp, clean tools.

More breadfruit care

Pruning breadfruit — FAQ

When should I prune breadfruit?

Late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant; a second light tidy in late summer is acceptable. Remove dead, diseased, or overly dominant branches hogging light from the sides and top. Aim for a rounded, open canopy rather than topping the tree flat. Never remove more than one-third of the canopy in a single session. Prune in the cooler part of the day to slow sap flow and use sharp, clean tools.

How often does breadfruit need pruning?

Annually for height and shape management. Breadfruit is a large, vigorous tree that benefits from pruning to maintain a rounded canopy shape and limit height. Without intervention it can grow to 20 metres and become impossible to harvest without ladders. Wear gloves — cut surfaces produce latex sap that can irritate sensitive skin.

How do you prune breadfruit?

Remove dead, diseased, or overly dominant branches hogging light from the sides and top. Aim for a rounded, open canopy rather than topping the tree flat. Never remove more than one-third of the canopy in a single session. Prune in the cooler part of the day to slow sap flow and use sharp, clean tools.