Overview

The sweet smelling blossoms of the mimosa tree attract abundant life to your garden. Bees, butterflies and birds enjoy the nectar of the large pom-pom-shaped flowers that emerge in the summer months. The mimosa tree grows well in temperate climates, and though it does grow in the warmer southern states, it blooms best after a moderately cold winter. Despite its preference for a cool winter, this tree will not survive very cold winters such as those of the far north or Alaska. Originally from China, this ornamental tree is a favorite for its sweet smelling flowers and rich shade canopy.

Step 1

Pick a day in late winter when the frosts have passed, to trim and prune your mimosa tree. It is best to prune before the tree emerges from its winter dormancy period.

Step 2

Use a sharp pair of pruning shears to remove small branches and twigs that look dead or unhealthy.

Step 3

If you come across diseased wood, prune back to where the branch is healthy and then disinfect pruning shears to prevent spreading the disease.

Step 4

Remove larger branches with a sharp tree saw. Take out any branches that cross other branches as friction can cause damage and breakage.

Step 5

Look at the overall shape of your tree; if it is spindly or leggy, you can remove branches to bring it into a more pleasing shape.

Step 6

Remove low-hanging branches that interfere with your movement under the tree by sawing off the limb close to the trunk.

Step 7

Remove any shoots that are springing up in you yard or garden. The mimosa tree sends out a plethora of underground shoots that can interfere with lawns and gardens if left untended.