Seasonal calendar · Cotinus coggygria
European Smoketree, AKA Venetian Sumach
The year for this species, phase by phase — what to watch and what to do as the season turns.
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Watering
Reduce frequency slightly as growth slows.
Fertilization
Stop feeding by mid-month.
Pruning
Only minimal shaping to reduce wind drag or balance.
Wiring
Consider light wiring as wood begins to harden.
Defoliation
Natural leaf drop beginning; do not interfere.
Bud Shoot Management
Observe and mark dormant buds for spring structure.
Pests Disease
Clean debris and remove any infected leaves.
Winter Protection
Begin transition to protected area for containerized trees.
Summer Protection
Remove shading structures.
Wound Management
Avoid cuts that won’t callus before frost.
Deadwood Carving
Good window for dry-carving in cooler weather.
Propagation
Seed collection from fertile flowers possible.
Development
Development pauses; enter maintenance mode.
Display
Attractive autumn foliage for show or photography.