Pruning is the deliberate removal of diseased, dead, damaged, unproductive or otherwise unwanted plant material from crop and landscape plants. It is also used to shape or train plants to achieve a desired form. It is an extremely important practice and when done properly increases a plant’s lifespan, health and beauty while decreasing risk to people and property.
The most common types of pruning are cleanup cuts, thinning, and training. Cleaning removes dead limbs and suckers while thinning reduces the overall height and density of the plant canopy. Lastly, training involves shaping trees or shrubs into highly specialized forms such as espaliers, topiaries and pollards.
Pruning should be based on the needs of the plant, the site conditions, and goals for its use. For example, a tree planted too close to power lines may require drastic pruning to prevent outages during storms. On the other hand, pruning a shrub to train it to grow into a rounded shrub can enhance the overall appearance of the garden and provide valuable habitat for birds.
Generally, pruning can be performed at any time of the year. However, a few species of woody plants are more sensitive to the timing of pruning and can be negatively impacted by wound closure or the introduction of pathogens through open wounds. For these species, the best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before growth begins.
When pruning a plant, always cut back to or just above a branch or bud. Doing so will promote new growth that is stronger and healthier than a stub. Also, when possible, remove limbs that are growing toward the center of the plant. This will help keep the center of the plant clear and encourage more flowers and fruit.
A good place to start is with the pruning of ornamental and small fruit trees. Typically, these can be sheared with hedge trimmers or loppers. If a large established shade or ornamental tree requires serious renovation pruning to redirect its energy and restore vigor, it is best left for professional arborists or tree care professionals.
Pruning is a combination of science and art. It is important to take your time and do the job correctly. Be sure to wear proper safety equipment when pruning large trees and always prune out dead branches anytime of the year.
While this guide provides general guidelines for pruning, every homeowner and professional has his or her own thoughts and experiences with best practices. This guide is meant to be a starting point for discussion and to spark new ideas. Ultimately, the best way to get the most out of your garden is to prune frequently and follow your instincts. With a little practice, you will develop a feel for how your plants respond to different pruning techniques and when to prune them. Good luck and happy gardening!
source https://treeaestheticswa.wordpress.com/2024/10/12/pruning-101/
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