Stimulating new branches, new branching out on a mango tree

[zands]

Hi All

On one mango tree I have some 3" diameter branches that I would like to see new branches coming out lower down from where it is presently branching out. You know how thick the bark is on a 3" diameter. I am thinking of using my electric drill to drill 6 holes that new branches will emerge from. I am thinking of going 1/4" deep with either a 1/8" or 1/4" drill bit. Does this make any sense? The same thing could be done to the trunk of a mango tree that is 3" in diameter.

Will drilling these holes stimulate this branch to put out new branches lower down?

Also does anyone have some other brilliant ideas for how to induce new branches on a mango or avocado tree? Would a slit with a knife work better? Thanks!

[MangoCountry]

Cut them back to the point that you’d like the branches to emerge from. I have never heard or seen hole drilling to promote branching.

[skhan]

I've girdled stems up to an inch or two to promote branching.
It works fine for me.

It's a little harder on thicker branches though.
You need to have a wider cut and it will take longer to branch.

For reference on the 1inch branches, i use a width of about a steak knife

[zands]

A good girdling video, but done to stimulate mango production, a lemon tree and a few others are also demonstrated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sehGpUQ3Xk