Pruning hazel (Corylus Avellana)

Hi,

I have a common hazel (Corylus Avellana) and it's had a growth spurt, which is really good to see on one hand, on the other I am itching to take a little bit of volume off.

This is not the ideal time for pruning hazel, I know. Significant pruning is meant to be done during dormant season and I believe shaping can also take place in March.

However.. If I keep it light, is it really going to be that bad for the tree's health? And would it help if I did it in phases?

Thank you.

 

Go for it.
I had one for a number of years and they can grow quickly if they're happy.
I used to hack mine back anytime i thought it was getting too big, which was usually in Summer.
It just carried on growing

 

Great, thank you