Let's help our trees make healthy decisions

Sometimes our trees don't make the best choices in life and they need a little help from us humans. While we all know the things that keep us in tip-top shape (healthy eating, exercise, quality sleep, etc.), what could we possibly have to offer trees in terms of mentorship? Well, we have opposable thumbs, access to tools, and the ability to climb and we can use those skills and resources to prune our trees so that they can be happy and healthy.

Why do we prune?

Get rid of any dead weight

The first thing we look for are any problem areas with dead or diseased wood. These sections should be removed to prevent the spread of pests and pathogens.

Next, we look for any places where we can open up the canopy to let more sunlight and airflow in to prevent disease from taking hold. We also make cuts to reduce rubbing branches, which can create wounds through which disease can enter. We also want to find areas where branches are coming off at weak angles to encourage strong limbs and reduce the potential for breakage.

Plant size

Sometimes, trees just get too big! We want to keep fruits and flowers at an accessible height so that they're easy to pick. Additionally, trees that are growing near buildings or other structures might need some trimming back if they're getting too close.

Improve quality and quantity of flowers and fruits

Although it might seem a little counter-intuitive, cutting back branches can encourage the tree to produce vigorous new growth during the growing season. Additionally, fewer fruits overall results in greater resources for each individual fruit-- this means sweeter fruits! Producing fruit requires lots of fuel (sunlight) so we also want to open up the canopy to increase light penetration, which is vital for photosynthesis.

Artistry

We all want pretty trees too! Pruning can help maintain a pleasing form.

“The sculpture is already complete within the tree, before I start my work. It is already there, I just have to clip away the superfluous material.”

― Michelangelo, probably

This is why he famously painted the Sistine Chapel featuring God holding a pair of pruning shears.

Timing is Everything

Many trees and shrubs are best pruned during the late winter months when they are not actively growing, but do your research first! You will want to avoid pruning spring bloomers, like azaleas and lilacs, as doing so now will remove the flowering buds.

Tips for Cutting

• Take out dead and diseased branches first.

• Make cuts at a 45º angle.

• Cut at the branch collar so that the tree has a chance to heal over.

• Take a step back every once in a while to make sure you are maintaining your artistic vision.

• Only take a maximum of 30% of the living canopy during one season. If your trees haven't been pruned in a while, they might need to be on a multi-year plan to get back into shape.

• Make sure your tools are sharp!