Pruning can prevent premature tree removal and extend tree life span. When done correctly, pruning stands as one of the most sustainable tree inputs.

Pruning

Click HERE to download a one page cue card on pruning

Click HERE to download a one page cue card on pruning

Click HERE to download a one page cue card on pruning

Pruning a young tree

Learn how to prune a young tree (specify time period) to create a healthy tree structure.

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Dive Deeper

Evaluate if a tree needs pruned

Discover the types of pruning cuts


Structural Pruning

Structural pruning improves the form of a tree by suppressing branches that are competing with the dominant leader. Young trees respond quickly to structural pruning. Changes in branch diameter relative to trunk diameter brought about by structural pruning are slower to manifest on medium-aged and mature trees than on younger trees because the core trunk and branch structure has already been established. [something about how structural pruning facilitates other kinds of pruning and should be considered first]

Learn more about structural pruning

Types of Pruning

Thinning the crown

Thinning is the selective removal of live branches to reduce crown density. Other than to avoid storm damage, entire-tree thinning of landscape trees is mostly an aesthetic practice that lasts only a short time.

Learn more about thinning the crown

Raising the crown

Lower branches often have to be removed to clear them from traffic, to prune them away from a building or walk, make signs visible that were installed too far off the ground, or open up a desirable view.

The best way to accomplish this is by structurally pruning over time to keep low branches small.

Learn more about raising the crown

Reducing the crown

Reducing crown size places physiological stress on a tree because many reduction cuts are required. While it should generally not be used, reducing the crown is used in pollarding

Learn more about reducing the crown

Test your knowledge

See if you can determine how to best prune these trees