Proper Pruning Essentialsby Amy Dismukes

Never Top Trees!

3-Cut Method for Larger Limbs

Making the Proper Cut WHY PRUNE?

- remove diseased, dead or damaged limbs & branches -- eliminate crossing or rubbing branches -

- remove insect infested wood -- maintain plant vigor and rejuvenate new growth -

- eliminate water sprouts and sucker growth - - maintain desired shape and growth -

WHEN TO PRUNE?- late winter or early spring generally recommended, before new growth -

- if plant blooms before July 1st, prune immediately after flowering, but not after July 10th -

- if plant blooms after 7/1, prune in late winter or early spring (before buds open and new growth begins) -

- prune heavy ‘sappers’ in January, to reduce the amount of bleeding (Maple, Elm, Birch, Dogwood, Sourwood) -

Reach-In and Take-Out Methodaka seletive pruning

reduces the size of plants without sacrificing the natural shape and growth characteristics

cuts are made 6-18” within the canopyreduces white stem cuts and torn foliage