How to Trim an Earpod Tree

The limbs of the Enterolobium cyclocarpum, the earpod tree, soar to 120 feet tall. This tree is known by several names, including elephant's ear tree and monkey ear tree. Not surprisingly, its noticeable characteristic is its ear-shaped pods. Common throughout Mexico and Central America, the tree is grown for both human and livestock food, as well as for wood. It is also enjoyed as a landscaping and shade tree. This tree is most pleasing to those who appreciate the many odd, spiral-shaped pods that it produces. The leaves are feathery and fernlike, and small white flowers appear in spring. When pruning the earpod tree, focus on removing dead branches in winter and controlling growth as needed throughout the year.

Electric trimmer
Chainsaw

Instructions

- 1
  Improve the quality and length of the trunk by pruning excess branches as needed, using an electric tree trimmer. The tree can easily grow to 100 feet tall, with 70-foot wide branches, so a strong central trunk is important.
- 2
  Prune to control the shape of the tree by removing selected limbs with a chainsaw or trimmer. These trees are vigorous and fast growers, so don't hesitate to prune severely if necessary. The tree can be grown indoors or in a pot when heavily pruned to prevent growth and avoid root restriction.
- 3
  Lop away dead or excess branches by hand or with a trimmer to encourage new growth, particularly during winter when much of the foliage and wood dies away. Trees lose all their foliage in winter. They are leafless for two months until they enter a new flush of growth that re-establishes a full crown. Much of the wood dies off as well. By removing dead wood, you improve regrowth.

How to Remove a Yoshino Cherry Stump

How to Prune Italian Honey Fig Trees

Trees