Garden Q&A: What's the best way to prune pyracantha? 

Whether you're a gardening beginner or expert, Irish Examiner columnist Peter Dowdall has the answer to your questions

Firethorn (Pyracantha). File picture

Question

Is it possible to cut off the bottom branches of pyracantha, so the branches begin from four feet off the ground, and leave the top growth? I ask as we are afraid our toddler might fall against the tree while playing in our garden. 

Answer

Yes, it is possible to cut off the bottom branches of pyracantha to about four feet while leaving the top growth intact. Pyracantha is quite tolerant of pruning and can be shaped to suit your needs. Removing lower branches is a very sensible idea if safety is a concern, especially with young children around, as the plant has very sharp thorns. 

Wearing a pair of strong, thorn-proof gloves, prune the tree just after flowering to avoid losing next year’s berries. 

Don’t over-prune the top, as that’s where the flowering and berry production will be strongest. The plant should respond well to this approach.

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