Eliminate any lateral limbs that grow from the trunk below the level where you want the tree’s canopy to start. You can grow African sumac as a shrub with low lateral branches or shape it as a tree with several feet of open space below the lateral limbs. Cut unwanted branches off as close to the trunk as possible .
When should sumac trees be pruned?
Gardeners should prune these trees in late winter or early spring , while the sumac tree remains dormant. Most trees get pruned at this time, except those that have showy spring flowers grown on old growth, where pruning would reduce the flower display.
How do you prune an African sumac tree?
Eliminate any lateral limbs that grow from the trunk below the level where you want the tree’s canopy to start. You can grow African sumac as a shrub with low lateral branches or shape it as a tree with several feet of open space below the lateral limbs. Cut unwanted branches off as close to the trunk as possible .
Should I prune my sumac?
Sumac, includes Staghorn and Smooth. In general, these plants need a minimal amount of pruning. Pruning, however, can improve the overall look of the plant. Only prune in early spring before the plant leafs out .
How do you care for African sumac?
- Plant Feed. Not necessary.
- Watering. Water 2 – 3 times per week until established.
- Soil. Fertile, well-drained soil.
- Basic Care Summary. Prefers infrequent, deep watering once established. Prune as needed.
How much water does an African sumac tree need?
Water an African sumac 10 to 15 times per year, thoroughly soaking the ground around the tree. A fully grown African sumac tree requires approximately 30 gallons of water during each watering session .
Are African sumac messy?
The African sumac is a poor choice for planting next to a sidewalk or driveway, if you plant a female tree. Female African sumacs bear berry-like fruits that create a mess when they fall from the tree. ... To avoid getting sidewalks or your vehicles messy, consider getting a male African sumac or choose another tree.
How long do sumac trees live?
While many sumacs are trees, some grow as shrubs, and some can be grown as either. The African sumac, for instance, usually is a tall tree that can grow to as high as 25 feet, usually living 50 to 100 years .
How far can you cut back sumac?
Anne’s advice on pruning sumac: Don’t prune more than 1/3 of the plant away at any time . Removing too much wood can cause extra stress on the plant. If you are drastically pruning the shrub to get it back in to place or shape, fall and winter are a good time to do this.
What are sumac trees used for?
Ground, dried sumac berries taste great as a spice rub for lamb, fish and chicken. These berries are also used as a salad topping , and you can include them in your favorite dressings. Middle Eastern chefs use sumac as a topping for fattoush salad, and are often sprinkled on hummus to add both color and a zesty flavor.
How do you shape sumac?
Pruning actually isn’t a requirement. If you wish to reshape your sumac or balance the branches somewhat, prune in fall . Eliminate suckers and shoots that pop up out of the soil as soon as you notice them. This will help you control the shrub and keep it from spreading too much.
How do you prune a smooth sumac?
Pruning is best done in late winter to early spring for most shrubs. With spring blooming shrubs, prune after the blooms are spent. When pruning, remove 1/3rd of the oldest branches by cutting at the base of the shrub. Monitor for pests, diseases or other ailments on a regular basis.
Is a sumac a flower?
Greenish or white flowers grow in 1- to 2-inch long clusters, leading to fruit that matures to red in mid-September. Evergreen sumac can be used to create a hedge or screen, or it can be pruned to favor a single leader to form a straight trunk and tree-like shape. Only female plants produce flowers and berries.
Why is my African sumac turning brown?
Branches dying in the bottom of the canopy of sumac. This may be due to too much shade. ... If the canopy is dense and creates too much shade then leaves and stems in these heavily shaded areas will die. When the leaves are first dying they turn yellow and finally brown when they are dead .
How often do you water sumac?
Water newly planted shrubs every other day for the first two weeks after planting . After the first two weeks, continue watering once a week during the first three years if there has not been an inch of rain during the preceding week.
How do you grow African sumac?
Performs best in full sun or part shade, in dry to moist, alkaline, well-drained soils. African Sumac is adapted to normal winter rainfall and low amounts of summer irrigation. Drought tolerant once established. Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer once per year in the spring just before new growth begins.
