A severe pruning technique where all branches are cut back to the main trunk annually or every few years, creating a dense, rounded canopy and encouraging vigorous new growth.
In plain terms
Pollard by cutting back all branches to the main trunk, usually in winter. This rejuvenates trees, keeps them compact, and produces vigorous young growth. It's severe and looks shocking after pruning, but trees respond by sending out multiple branches, creating dense, rounded canopies. It's mainly done on ornamentals and some fruit trees.
Why this matters
Pollarding extends tree lifespan, keeps trees compact, and creates distinctive landscape features. It's useful for space-constrained sites.
In practice
Examples
Ornamental pollard (like London plane tree): cut back annually to same framework; creates dense, rounded canopy.
Fruit tree pollarded: severe cuts redirect energy into compact growth; smaller but productive tree.
Pollarded willow: creates elegant framework; produces long flexible growth.
Space-constrained urban garden: pollarding keeps large trees compact and manageable.
Practical applications
Pollard in late winter before growth starts.
Cut branches back to same point each year; creates branch framework.
Young trees (1-2 years old) are easier to train for pollarding.
Not appropriate for all tree species; research first.
Creates distinctive landscapes; popular in European formal gardens.