Clipping intensity improves growth rate of kermes oak twigs

The effect of clipping intensity on the growth rate of kermes oak (Quercus coccifera L.) twigs was studied for two growing seasons in Greece. Five clipping intensities, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% of twig length, were applied every 15 days. The heavier clipping intensities (40%, 60%, 80%, 100%) resulted in higher growth rates than the lighter intensity (20%) and the control (0%) in the second, relatively wet, year. Moreover, clipping at any intensity stimulated growth during summer while the control was dormant. It is concluded that clipping of kermes oak twigs at any intensity, every 15 days, results in a considerable twig growth during summer.