That ends today. In this video I show you exactly how to prune your tropical fruit trees, both young and old. So grab your pruners and lets get to work. If you donʻt have pruning tools yet ...

I thought too that a tree knows how to be a tree — we don’t need to shape it to suit our preconceived beliefs, barring the above reasons for pruning. And this is true, in a natural setting.

Below, the experts share their tips for success, including advice on the right method and timing. You'll also find info on pruning the giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai), a larger variety.

The team then monitored ant pruning behaviour of these competing species for five weeks. Detached leaves from several trees, including T. americana, were then attached to host trees with a sewing pin.