Pruning
for Form
The
objective in pruning for form is to help shape a tree that is aesthetically
pleasing and serves well in the space it is to occupy. After pruning with
strength in mind, look for ways to help shape the most desirable tree.
Thinning
and Spacing
Most
trees benefit from thinning — removing a portion of the limbs that compete for
space and light. Evenly spaced laterals, 8-12 inches apart in the young tree,
is a good rule of thumb to help assure an ideal "ladder" at maturity.
Ingrowers Protruders and Crown Ratio
When
a crown is dense, look for limbs that turn inward, and those that extend beyond
the “natural” outline of the crown. Prune at the trunk or down to an appropriate
lateral branch. Over-pruning can damage or even kill your tree. Always maintain
at least 2/3 of the tree as the live crown.
Function
Try
to imagine what the tree will look like when it is larger. If a limb is headed
toward trouble (the house, walkway, sign. etc.), remove as early as possible
in the life of the tree. Closure of the wound will be more complete when the
limb is small, and it is less trouble and expense. Remember, limbs do not move
upward as a tree grows in height.
Double
Leaders
Protect
the leader from competition. In trees with co-dominant leaders, remove the one
with a crook or other defects, or that creates a lop-sided appearance.
Caution: Do
not prune too high too quickly. To “lift” (raise) the crown, remove lower limbs
over several years. No more than 1/3 of the live crown should ever be removed
in a single cutting.
15
years after removing low branch
