Tree pruning may seem daunting, but timely and well-considered pruning keeps trees healthy, encourages a well-shaped canopy, and helps control size.
Key Benefits of Tree Pruning
- Influences the size, shape, and vigor of the tree.
- Helps control pests and diseases.
- Promotes better structure, health, and appearance.
How to Prune a Tree in Ten Simple Steps
1. Gather the Right Tools
- For small branches: Secateurs, loppers.
- For larger branches: Pruning saw, long-handled saw.
- Additional tools: Ladder, gloves, safety goggles, and head protection.
2. Sharpen and Clean Tools
- Ensure sharp blades for clean cuts.
- Clean tools with disinfectant when cutting diseased wood to prevent spreading.
3. Identify Goals
- Thin branches to reduce shade.
- Crown lift by removing lower branches for space beneath the canopy.
- Shape the tree to enhance its natural beauty.
4. Remove the 3 Ds
- Start by removing Dead, Diseased, and Damaged branches.
- Eliminate rubbing branches to avoid disease entry points.
5. Assess from Different Angles
- Identify additional branches to remove.
- Avoid removing more than 20% of the canopy in one year.
6. Prepare for Larger Branches
- Use an undercut and overcut technique to prevent tearing:
- First cut the underside of the branch 20 cm (8 in) from the trunk.
- Then make a top cut 2.5 cm (1 in) further out before sawing through.
7. Remove Larger Branches
- Saw carefully through the branch. For long or heavy branches, cut in sections to avoid accidents.
8. Prune Thin Branches
- Cut branches under 2.5 cm (1 in) diameter just above a healthy outward-facing bud.
- Avoid cutting too close to the bud (it may die) or too far (risk of dieback).
9. Thin Out Thicker Branches
- For branches over 2.5 cm (1 in) diameter, cut back to a trunk, thicker branch, or a strong side shoot.
10. Reassess the Tree
- Step back and view the tree from all sides.
- Ensure symmetry and balance, and repeat steps as necessary.
General Pruning Tips
When to Prune?
- Deciduous Trees: Prune in winter when dormant (exceptions: birch, maples – prune early autumn to avoid sap bleeding).
- Evergreen Trees: Light pruning from April to August.
Formative Pruning for Young Trees
- Prune during the first 1–5 years to establish shape and structure.
Safety and Legal Considerations
- Check for Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) or conservation area restrictions.
- Ensure no active bird nests or bat roosts before pruning.
- Seek professional help for large or complex trees.
Wound Paints
- Generally unnecessary, except for plums and cherries to prevent silver leaf disease.