How to Trim a Sycamore

Sycamores (Platanus spp.) are ornamental trees prized for their shade-providing nature and attractive, interesting bark. The sycamore has a mature height between 70 and 100 feet with a similar spread. Young sycamores have a pyramidal form but develop a spreading form when mature. This form requires a few well-spaced major branches extending from the trunk. Correct pruning when the tree is young will ensure that the sycamore has a strong structure. A mature sycamore requires little corrective pruning except to remove aggressive or damaged branches. Try to concentrate the bulk of pruning while the tree is dormant, or not actively growing.

Loppers or pruning shears
Hand saw, if necessary
Ladder, if necessary

Instructions

- 1
  Select strong scaffold, or main branches, to keep on the tree. The sycamore crown is supported by a few very large branches. These should be spaced 2 to 4 feet apart and evenly around the central leader to ensure as strong a structure as possible.
- 2
  Prune off any aggressive, upward-growing, central growth to maintain a single, dominant leader.
- 3
  Cut off any unwanted branches. Large branches warrant multiple cuts to avoid bark tear. Cut the bulk of the branch at least a foot away from the trunk before making a final cut next to the branch collar.
- 4
  Remove any aggressive, upright branches with tight crotches. Cut these back to the branch junction.
- 5
  Prune any branches that are rubbing against another branch. Remove the branch that is growing most upright and vigorously.
- 6
  Cut back branches to shape the tree and encourage a spreading, full growth habit. Cut branches or twigs back to a side branch or cut within a quarter-inch of a bud that is facing outward from the trunk.
- 7
  Remove any damaged, diseased or dead branches as they appear.

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