London Plane in January: monthly care

London plane requires minimal pruning once established, but formative pruning in the early years helps develop a strong framework. Prune during dormancy in November, December, or January to reduce sap bleeding and avoid stress. Never prune in spring or summer when the tree is in active growth. For young trees, focus on establishing a clear central leader and removing competing leaders or crossing branches. Cut back any low laterals that might obstruct pathways or sightlines, aiming for a clear trunk of at least 2 to 3 metres. Use sharp bypass secateurs for small branches and a pruning saw for anything thicker than your thumb. Always cut just outside the branch collar—the slight swelling where the branch meets the trunk—to promote natural healing. Mature London planes rarely need pruning beyond removing dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Check annually for broken branches, especially after storms, and remove these promptly to prevent decay entering the main trunk. If branches overhang buildings, roads, or utilities, hire a qualified tree surgeon; large limbs are heavy and dangerous to remove without proper equipment and training. Avoid heavy crown reduction or topping, which disfigures the tree and encourages weak, vigorous regrowth prone to disease. London plane naturally sheds its bark in irregular patches, revealing cream and grey mottled wood beneath—this is normal and not a sign of ill health. If you notice cankers, oozing lesions, or dieback, consult an arborist, as plane anthracnose and other fungal diseases occasionally affect stressed trees.