How And When To Prune Young Chinese Pistache Tree

Question

I’m thinking that this tree needs to have the top branch pruned now or soon. The tree was topped once, has been in the ground 1 1/2 years, in Contra Costa county, California (inland from San Francisco). I really want it to branch and end up with a lovely rounded shape. A local arborist has told me that I must not do this, it would ruin the structure of the tree. I’m attaching 3 photos – the first 2 are of the tree I’m asking about, the last is a tree in my area that has the structure I wish to create. There isn’t any 4th upload, but I couldn’t find a way to cancel the button. Thank you so much for your offer to give some advice.

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Answer 1

Unfortunately, your arborist is correct! These trees need special pruning, and in Spring before any new growth. Here is an article that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/chinese-pistache/pruning-chinese-pistache-trees.htm