How to prune ornamental plum 'nigra'

Early summer, after flowering finishes (April to May). Remove dead and diseased wood back to healthy tissue. On specimen trees, thin crossing branches and any growth spoiling the natural rounded outline. When used as a hedge or screen, trim new growth back by half after flowering to maintain density while preserving the flowering shoots for next spring. Always use clean, sharp tools on Prunus species.

Annually after flowering for hedges; every 2-3 years for specimen trees. Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra' is grown for its deep purple foliage and early pink blossom rather than fruit. It tolerates moderate pruning and is often used as a specimen tree or informal hedge. Prune in early summer after flowering to reduce silver leaf risk. Remove dead, diseased, and inward-growing shoots to maintain an attractive open form.

Remove dead and diseased wood back to healthy tissue. On specimen trees, thin crossing branches and any growth spoiling the natural rounded outline. When used as a hedge or screen, trim new growth back by half after flowering to maintain density while preserving the flowering shoots for next spring. Always use clean, sharp tools on Prunus species.