The Art and Science of Life Hack Pruning!

Detail pruning is an important aspect of overall tree care because it helps establish a solid wood base to support the fruit generated by the tree. logical pruning also helps with improved fruit production as more nutrients can be delivered as food instead of being used up by unnecessary limbs and branches.

The best wood for fruit production are the smaller lateral branches that run along the sides of the main branches of the tree. Sap tends to run more freely along the side branches and they are less likely to be shaded from above thus allowing the fruit both food and light. By contrast, smaller limbs that grow above or below the main branches end up with less light exposure and less food from the roots.

Periodic pruning is necessary to remove deadwood and to allow more light into the canopy of the tree. Sometimes pruning is also necessary to clear a walkway, street or road. Pruning is also mandatory when the branches of a tree are growing into power lines or overhanging a structure like a house, garage or storage area.

Generally, the best time to trim a tree is late winter or early spring when the tree is transitioning into the growing season. Emergency pruning for occurrences like wind damage can be done when the situation requires it.

There are a few simple tools that can be used to prune most trees. A lobber tool can range in size from about 24 to 36 inches in length. Lobber tolls can be used on smaller branches up to two or three inches in diameter. A lobber tool with a cutting rather than a compressing action is preferred for the clean cut it delivers. A basic bow saw is required for larger branches. The bow saw is very efficient for cutting through branches over three inches in diameter. A pole saw can be used for some of the taller branches that need pruning that are not reachable without an extension. Before any pruning job is started, it is essential to have all the pruning tools sharpened. Sharpening not only makes the job easier, it also creates a clean cut that is less harmful to a tree.

When pruning, the least amount of vegetation removed is always preferred. If too much of a tree is trimmed at one time, the tree can more easily develop disease or become structurally weakened. When too many branches are removed, the tree will have a much harder time producing food for its seeds and fruits due to the decreased quantity of leaves. Trees are also more susceptible to insects when many of there larger branches have been carelessly hacked off. The fewer large branches removed, the better it is for the tree’s health. Always look for any branches that are rubbing together. The friction caused by the rubbing could actually cause a fire or damage one or both of the branches involved.

When possible, keep as much of the tree’s natural form when pruning. This is how the tree protects itself in a high wind storm situation.