Pruning – It’s a Timing Thing

Generally speaking, pruning objectives for young deciduous (trees that lose their leaves in the winter) include development of a disease-free symmetrical plant.  Pruning of trees correctly when they are young eliminates many problems encountered by owners of middle-aged and/or mature trees. Thus, when the pruning takes place, timing is critical in two respects: time of year and time in the plant’s life.

The following 8 rules help to achieve these goals:

1. Start pruning when the plant is young
2. Maintain a central branch leader
3. Eliminate narrow V-crotches
4. Remove dead and diseased branches
5. Eliminate insect infected, rubbing, deformed branches
6. Make cuts 3/8” above bud when pruning to a bud
7. Make cuts to the branch collar, eliminating stubs
8. Select well-spaced, broach angle scaffolding branches to remain.

Pruning can also be done by contacting the professionals at Twin Oaks Landscape.