How to prune crataegus persimilis 'prunifolia'

Late winter to early spring while dormant; or after flowering in late spring. Wear thick, thorn-proof gloves. Remove dead and crossing wood with cuts just outside the branch collar. For size control, shorten long shoots to a suitable side branch. Sterilise tools between cuts if disease is present.

Annually for light tidy-up; harder reshaping every 3–5 years if required. Crataegus persimilis 'Prunifolia' (broad-leaved cockspur thorn) is a thorny, sturdy ornamental tree needing only light maintenance pruning. Remove dead, diseased, crossing, or inward-growing branches to keep the crown open and healthy. It tolerates hard pruning if needed for size reduction, but restraint preserves berries and autumn colour.

Wear thick, thorn-proof gloves. Remove dead and crossing wood with cuts just outside the branch collar. For size control, shorten long shoots to a suitable side branch. Sterilise tools between cuts if disease is present.