Pruning May Hawthorn for Windbreak Form

Overview

May hawthorn (Crataegus aemula) is a spiny tree of the outer coastal plains of North Carolina. Stabilizes riverbanks, provides bird/rodent shelter. To 34 feet with white flowers, red fruit, narrow serrated shiny leaves. Wind-tolerant for windbreaks. Prefers well-drained soil, full sun.

Step 1: Dormant Pruning

Winter/early spring for hardy next-season growth.

Step 2: Central Leader Development

Cut tops to produce one strong stem; remove twisted/old lateral branches.

Step 3: Disease and Insect Control

Remove entire broken/diseased branches. Sterilize shears with methanol between cuts. Remove all insect-infested stems.

Step 4: Sapling Training

Prune to one central stem; remove weak branches for light penetration. Remove root suckers as they emerge.