How to prune tannenbaum mugo pine

Late spring, when new candles are fully elongated but needles have not yet opened (typically May–June). Pinch or snap each new candle by one-third to one-half using your fingers — do not use shears, as cutting through needles leaves brown stubs. Never cut back into old, brown wood, which will not regenerate.

Annually (candling); otherwise as needed to remove dead or diseased branches. Tannenbaum Mugo Pine benefits from candling each spring to control its naturally compact, conical growth and prevent it becoming too dense. Pinch or snap new candles by half before needles fully open. Without pruning it stays tidy, but annual candling keeps the silhouette crisp and improves air circulation.

Pinch or snap each new candle by one-third to one-half using your fingers — do not use shears, as cutting through needles leaves brown stubs. Never cut back into old, brown wood, which will not regenerate.