Pruning is the selective removal of dead, diseased, non-productive or structurally unsound plant material from woody plants such as trees and shrubs. Proper pruning increases the health and longevity of landscape plants, and can enhance their beauty. It also helps maintain a safe environment by reducing the risk of property damage or injury from falling plants. Judicious pruning practices are essential to maintaining good plant vigor, encouraging flower and fruit production, and providing a structure for growth.
Almost every tree or shrub requires some form of pruning. The type and degree of pruning required depends on the species, its age, location, growth habit, and cultural needs. Pruning can be done by the homeowner, but it is generally recommended to leave large established shade and ornamental trees to a professional arborist or qualified tree care specialist who has the appropriate equipment and training to prune them safely.
Properly understanding why and when to prune can save time, effort and money. Many people prune without a clear plan, often cutting into a plant too soon and causing damage. Pruning for health benefits such as reducing stress on the plant and improving appearance should always be considered before making any cuts.
Often the first step in a pruning project is to remove dead or dying branches from the plant. This will reduce the weight of a branch, prevent it from breaking off and can improve airflow through the crown. It can also help limit the spread of a disease or insect infestation.
Next, it is important to remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. These may chafe and create an entry point for pathogens, which can lead to the eventual loss of the branch. It is also important to remove any branches that are growing into the trunk of a tree or ones that are at a narrow angle to it, as these can break off under wind, snow or ice loads.
For ornamental shrubs and some perennials, such as hollyhocks and buddleia, pruning usually involves heading back the plant to control height and shape. This can be done using shears or loppers, although more precise pruning with a handsaw is sometimes preferred.
In the case of flowering or fruit trees, thinning is often required to open the canopy and increase light penetration into the plant. This is best done by a qualified tree service expert to ensure proper line clearance.
Some plants, like azaleas, rhododendrons and mountain laurel, should be pruned immediately after they bloom. This helps them to concentrate their energy on new foliage and fruit development. Other plants, such as lilacs, magnolias, forsythias and chokeberry, are best pruned in late winter or early spring before they start to grow. They typically flower on wood produced during the previous year. The goal is to produce healthy, vigorous plants with well-distributed branches that are well-spaced and shaped. They will require less pruning as they grow, as long as the necessary structural cuts are made during the correct timing.
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