Stop Killing Your Trees By Pruning Them The Wrong Way

Pruning a tree is simply the act of removing specific branches or stems. This may be done to improve the tree’s appearance, or in order to benefit the tree.

Why do I need to prune my trees?

A tree may need pruning for a variety of reasons. It may just be as simple as that the tree has got too big and needs reducing in size to still fit comfortably wherever it is. On the opposite end of the spectrum, pruning the crown of a tree can actually permit new growth and allows for better air circulation which aids growth. Pruning can also be done to shape a tree for design purposes, or keeping it neat and tidy.

When should I prune my trees?

Dead, damaged and diseased branches should be removed as soon as possible. Otherwise the best tie to prune a tree is in late winter, early spring, just before the tree starts to open its buds again after the cold weather.

How do I prune a tree?

First of all, before even one cut to the tree is made, have a plan. Study the tree and decide on what needs to be pruned, then decide what equipment is needed. Most pruning tasks can be completed with hand pruners, loppers and a pruning saw. It’s important to do the job carefully and correctly. When pruned right, a callus grows that looks a little like a donut. Inside the tree a chemical boundary is formed, that compartmentalizes the wounded area and allows regrowth elsewhere. If a branch stub is left or the branch is cut flush then this callus cannot form, which limits regrowth potential.