Does pruning a tree back reduce water needs?

Discussion in 'Landscaping' started by Frosty123, 10th Apr, 2017.

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  1. Frosty123

    Frosty123 Well-Known Member

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    Hi all,

    I have two large conifer trees directly outside the front of my property. I've noticed large cracks in the brickwork (cracks right through the bricks) which are now about 10mm wide.
    I suspect this is due to a drop in soil moisture as we're on reactive clay and have just come through a dry period.

    Just wanting to know if prune these trees back significantly, will reduce the water they're sucking from the ground, or will I have to completely rip them out?

    Thanks

    Frosty
     
    Frosty123, 10th Apr, 2017
    #1
  2. wylie

    wylie Moderator Staff Member

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    I don't know, but could you water them regularly so they don't go "looking" for water?

    Edit: How far from the foundations are they? Do they need to go because they are too close?
     
    wylie, 10th Apr, 2017
    #2
  3. Paul@PAS

    Paul@PAS Tax, Accounting + SMSF + All things Property Tax Business Plus Member

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    Speak to nursery and show pics - Horticulture people know this stuff.
    Generally roots are there and wont go away. Problem just gets worse.
     
    Paul@PAS, 12th Apr, 2017
    #3
  4. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    A good solid pruning 18" above ground level with a McCollough chainsaw will dramatically reduce water requirements if combined with a glyphosate treatment.
     
    Scott No Mates, 12th Apr, 2017
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  5. Lizzie

    Lizzie Well-Known Member

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    Pruning will only temporarily reduce water requirements - and then it will suck even more out as it "regrows".

    Personally - pull them out - never liked conifers
     
    Lizzie, 13th Apr, 2017
    #5
  6. Ambit

    Ambit Well-Known Member

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    Pruning conifers is a bit tricky, depending on the species, if you cut them back too far they will not produce new growth and it will look horrible. It probably won't have the desired effect in the long run either. If it is the trees causing the problem, removing them is the best option.
    I'd get some expert advice from an arborist first.
     
    Ambit, 13th Apr, 2017
    #6