Hi,what I would like to know is what is the best thing to do with the brown branches.Is it best to cut them off neatly,or does this cause more problems.Or is it best to leave the tree as it is and let nature decide. Thanks
If they are completely dead, either is OK, it won't make any difference to the tree's health. The tree will look nicer if you do prune them off.
HI Sorry the reply is late,just one more question,what is the best way to prune them.Is it best to cut the branches level with the tree,or leave a certain length.Also is it best to cover the open cut with anything,to protect it from disease etc. Thanks John
You want to leave about half a centimetre or so of stub - just enough so you don't damage the bark on the branch collar at the base. Don't put anything on the cut, the tree will produce white resin to cover wounds itself.
Hi John, Monkey puzzle trees are native to the Andes, their natural habit is to have foliage and branching at the upper third of the canopy, they normally have large snow loading in winter which aids them in the removal of their lower limbs. In the landscape most places dont get enough snow to do this so the tree will sacrifice its branches naturally by shutting off resources and turning them brown. As mentioned pruning just beyond the branch collar is best. Consider: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monkey_puzzle_tree
