How to Prune a Mastic Tree

Prune dead branches and crisscrossing branches. Prune the weaker of the crossing branches. Prune lower branches to form the plant into a tree rather than a bush. Prune excess branches as needed to allow light and air to reach the interior leaves. Prune branches during winter months when the tree is dormant.

Prune any shoots coming from the base that you don’t want to see mature into a trunk or branch. Mastic trees typically are pruned into trees with one or two trunks. Prune close to the branch or trunk. Don’t leave stubs.

Prune the outer branches to shape the tree. Do shape pruning in early spring just at the start of the growing season. Trim off the terminal buds on the branches to encourage side branching for a fuller appearance. Strive for a rounded or open vase shape.