How to make Crimson Spire grow vertically?

[adm]

Hi,

I have these Crimson Spires:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/330mm-oakville-crimson-spire-flowering-plum-prunus-cerasifere_p3723220?s...

I planted them last year and this season, the branches appear too heavy and are flipping down to the sides. IT is almost as if the branches aren't strong enough to remain upright, and are bending under their own weight.

Should I be pruning or even staking these trees to ensure the grow straight?

[JacobZ]

Hi @adm,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

Do you have any photos of your Crimson Spires that you could share? While it doesn't sound like a huge issue, seeing them might help us to better understand what you are dealing with. Let me know if you need assistance uploading photos. I am happy to help if required.

Crimson Spires will naturally grow tall and narrow, but when they’re young, the branches can be soft and flexible. It’s common for them to bend under the weight of their own foliage when their growth outpaces the ability of the wood to harden. This usually doesn’t mean anything is wrong; it just takes a season or two for the tree to develop a stronger structure.

It likely just needs a bit of pruning to reduce the weight on the branches, but I'd like to see it to be sure.

I will continue to assist when we can see what you are dealing with.

Jacob

[adm]

Thanks for the input. I have attached some photos. 

It does seem like the wood is too flexible.

What is the best way forward for now, pruning or leaving to harden and straighten up?

 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @adm,

Having seen your Crimson Spires, I think a bit of trimming is the way to go.

Start by identifying the main upright stem on each tree, as you'll want to keep it as the tree’s dominant point of growth. You'll want to base your pruning on proximity to this stem.

Then, using sharp, clean secateurs, trim back any side branches that are drooping or competing with the leader, cutting just above an upward-facing bud or smaller side shoot. This encourages new, more vertical growth and helps the tree develop a balanced, upright structure. 

Avoid heavy pruning, as removing too much at once can stress the young tree. It’s best to remove no more than about one-third of a branch’s length at a time. This allows the tree to recover easily and redirect energy into healthy, upright growth without becoming stressed. If a branch is badly placed or damaged and needs to be removed entirely, you can take it off cleanly at the base; just avoid removing more than 20–25% of the tree’s total foliage in one season.

Once your pruning has been done, give your trees a good watering with some Seasol and consider applying some All Purpose Controlled Release Fertiliser if you haven't already fertilised. Giving the trees plenty of water and the nutrients they need to bounce back after their prune will ensure they make the most of the warmer weather and their vertical growth continues strong.

A few well-placed cuts each year will help it strengthen and naturally hold its tall, columnar shape.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob