Pruning a leaning plum tree

[JT101]

Hi folks

I know when you have a leaning tree you can brace it with a prop but i feel this one may be a bit extreme.

interested in what you guys would do? Would you cut off most of the leaning limb that is almost dragging the tee to the floor or just prop it and give the tree an overall prune?

see attached image

thanks

[ameno]

Assuming you are not unhappy with the space the leaning tree takes up, and your main concern is simply that the lopsided weight may make the whole tree topple over, I would just continue to prop up the leaning side and let the tree lean.

I do notice that the main "leader" of the lopsided branch is very long, though, taller than the main central tree, even. Probably best to shorten that by about a third, I would think, and maybe shorten a few of the other thin branches on that side, too.
I've indicated on the picture with red lines where I think it best to cut.

Since you are dealing with relatively thick branches, though, any pruning needs to wait until at least May next year.

[nickdub]

Basically I agree with Ameno, however I would just add that as it's a relatively young tree you may be able to reposition it so that the trunk is more upright, if you wish to do the work involved.

First obviously get any pruning of branches out of the way now. Then wait until the leaves are off in the Autumn. When you can dig round the roots with a pick and a sharp spade about 2 to 3 ft away from the trunk, and using a rope and a pulley or a couple of strong people get the trunk nearer to the vertical. Obviously if you do try this you will need a really strong stake such as a 6' fence post banged a decent distance into the ground to tie the tree in to for its next years growth. PS don't forget to tamp the loose earth back in hard round the roots so the tree doesn't have to contend with air pockets in the ground.

[Plot70]

If you are going to get the trunk vertical again I would be tempted to dig on the non leaning side and pull it further over so that soil can be removed from under the root plate.
Once you have removed enough it should stand up again.
Just put the removed soil on top of the non leaning side of the root plate to hold it down.
A strong stake will be needed for a couple of years though.

[Jungle Jane]

Has this just happened with the storm,it might be best to sort the straightness now before the ground settles again,hammer in a strong stake the tree might be a bit moveable now,soaking the area,forking around a bit,you can get it straightened,I wouldn’t prune it now,wait till June to avoid silver leaf disease.