Proper Pruning Principles
Proper pruning requires experience and skill. It can be as basic as the removal of deadwood or as
Pcomplex as bonsai. From the mundane to the
intricate one critical fact remains - the need for pruning cuts to be made properly. How pruning cuts are
made is as important as what is removed. To avoid damaging the tree while removing limbs, our arborists
often prune branches using a three-cut system. This method reduces the weight of the limb and prevents
the bark from ripping or tearing. Additionally, this
technique protects the branch collar where beneficial
callus tissue will form to close the pruning wound.
In this method the first cut (A) is made on the under
side of the branch several inches from the branch
collar. The second cut (B) is made from above, slightly
beyond the first cut and will cause the branch to break
off. The final pruning cut (C) removes the stub to
just outside the branch collar. This technique allows
for proper removal of any size branches without
damaging the tree.
The dormant season is the
ideal time to utilize this practice.
Of course,
Hartney
Greymont will
be pleased to
help you prune
and care for
your valuable
trees and landscape.
