How to prune prunus padus

Midsummer, after flowering and fruiting — avoids silver leaf infection risk. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches back to healthy wood or the branch collar. Disinfect pruning tools before and after use. Do not prune in wet or cold weather.

As needed — no routine annual pruning required. Prunus padus (bird cherry) needs minimal pruning once established. It is susceptible to silver leaf and bacterial canker, so avoid pruning in winter when disease risk is highest. Prune in midsummer after flowering to minimise infection. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches; otherwise leave the tree to develop naturally.

Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches back to healthy wood or the branch collar. Disinfect pruning tools before and after use. Do not prune in wet or cold weather.