A GUIDE TO CORRECT PRUNING

Natural Target Pruning

 

Removing a limb Locate the branch bark ridge (BBR) Find target A - outside BBR Find target B - where branch meets collar If B cannot be found, drop an imaginary line at AX. Angle XAC equals XAB. Stub cut the branch Make final cut at line AB (with power saws make final cut on upstroke). Do Not: Make flush cuts behind the BBR Leave living or dead stubs Injure or remove the branch collar Paint cuts

Wound Dressing

Wound dressing should be considered only cosmetic. Research shows that they do not stop decay. Do not interfere with the natural process. Maintain the tree's health and it will take care of the wounds.

PRUNING - When?

When dormant
When sap flow is slow (i.e. bleeders)
Spring blooming plants - after flowering
Late flowering plants - on same years wood - before new growth
Evergreens - pinch new growth (New growth will only occur from green tissue!)
Hedges - as required to maintain size and shape

PRUNING - Why?

Improve and maintain health
Improve flowering and fruiting
Remove dead, diseased, broken wood
Remove crossing or rubbing branches
Control natural shape and size
Prune for safety
Prune for visibility
Provide for sun and air circulation
Restore balance
Rejuvenate deciduous shrubs

PRUNING - How?

Use clean sharp tools.

PRUNING - Do's and Don't s

Never give haircuts
Never leave stubs
Never use dull equipment
Never prune everything to one shape
Always plan every cut
Prune to an outward facing bud
Stand back and look

PRUNING - Types of Cuts

Pinching back
Heading back
Shearing
Thin out
Drop crotch
Jump cut
Rejuvenate
Directional cuts
Pollarding