01-12-2015, 06:50 AM
Girdling has to, by definition, entirely circle the trunk. It is most effective when done within 12-18" of the soil surface. The optimum width of the girdle depends on the diameter of the tree. Double the diameter: a 10" D. tree needs a 20" D. girdle. I usually use a pruning saw to cut through the bark at the upper and lower ends of the girdle. Then I use my Swiss Army knife, insert it into the upper cut, and drag it down to the lower one. Repeat all the way around. Tedious, but it works.