Many people prune trees because they want them to look better or to reduce the risk of damage from storms or from falling limbs. Others may have specific landscape needs that require more complex pruning techniques. Whatever the reasons, the key to successful tree pruning is to avoid creating large wounds that can make it difficult for a tree to seal them and leave them vulnerable to rot, insects, diseases, and other threats.
The two most common pruning errors are known as flush cuts and stub cuts. These occur during Cut 3, when you remove a branch stub or a portion of the branch that remains after Cut 2. To prevent these mistakes, locate the branch collar (the slightly swollen area where the trunk and the branch meet) before making your cut. If possible, aim to cut just outside of the branch collar.
Reaction sprouts (also known as water sprouts) are vigorous upright growth that forms from the tip of a branch or along a limb where a pruning cut was made. They are an indicator that the tree is attempting to make up for lost energy from the removed branch, which is why it’s important to not only evaluate a pruning cut’s purpose but also its impact on the overall health of the tree.
Pruning a tree to remove dead or dying branches is one of the most important jobs you can do for its structure and health. Pruning dead branches can improve the appearance of a tree, help avoid potential hazards in a storm, and prevent pests from using them as food sources.
Crossing or rubbing branches, thorns below eye level, sucker growth from rootstock, and water sprouts from limbs are all objectionable and should be pruned as soon as they develop. Other desirable cuts include thinning to promote light diffusion and airflow, reducing the width of a canopy, removing suckers, opening vistas, repairing storm damage, and eliminating obstructive roots.
Large, established shade trees should only be pruned by qualified arborists and tree care professionals who have the equipment to do so safely. However, small ornamental and fruit trees can be pruned by homeowners to promote growth and shape. Before attempting to prune your own trees, consult an expert gardener, local gardening or landscaping resource, or the experts at Davey to learn more about when, how, and why to prune your landscape plants.
source https://caboolturetreeremoval.wordpress.com/2023/11/15/tree-pruning-avoid-these-tree-pruning-mistakes/
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