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Hi, this Lilly Pilly is about 3 years old. Its planted in the lawn and we would like it to have a clean trunk so it can be mowed under. Will the trunk get taller as the tree grows or should we be cutting off the lower branches. Also if the lower branches were cut off would that give the tree more energy towards growing taller. The lower branches are up to approximately 2 to 3 cm diameter.
Thanks.
Hello @Chintah
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your lilly pilly.
It's great that you've received excellent advice from @mich1972. Your Lilly Pilly’s trunk won’t really “lift” as it grows—it will thicken, but the lower branches will stay where they are unless pruned. If you want a more tree-like shape with a clear trunk for mowing underneath, you can gradually remove the lower branches.
Removing these lower branches won’t necessarily make the tree grow taller faster, but it can help direct more energy into the upper canopy, encouraging upward growth over time. It’s best to prune in stages rather than removing all the lower branches at once, as sudden heavy pruning can stress the tree.
Since the branches are still relatively small (2-3 cm in diameter), they should heal well if cut cleanly. Use sharp, sterilized secateurs or a pruning saw and make cuts just outside the branch collar (the slightly swollen area where the branch meets the trunk) to help the tree heal properly. Late summer to early autumn is a good time for pruning, as it allows the tree to recover before winter. Regularly trimming new shoots that pop up lower on the trunk will also help maintain the look you want.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
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