There are two goals to achieve by pruning. The first one is part of the overall styling of the tree. The second is with the aim of developing a closer ramification by pruning back the branches. Here the goal by the pruning, is to develop new branches, which forms clusters of 6 to 10 needles at the end of every branch. 

 

Never cut behind the needles, because this will cause the branch to die.

 

 

Leave growing needles to improve the likelihood of a new bud formation on the old wood, and formation of new side branching. When the end of the branch is cut bask to to or four needle pairs, it will help the remaining needles to develop into new side branches.

The new pine buds customarily grows in clusters around the needle sheath covers. Do take great care not to damage these sheaths.

 

Pruning time

In general it is time to prune when your tree is in slow growth during autumn and winter. This will prevent sap loss, which is stressing the tree.

If you prune back shoots in order to develop new buds, this should be done in summer

Pruning during early autumn will though give the Pine a change to set

When pruning it is wise to leave a small stump that will dry out during the next months.