Pruning is the careful removal of diseased, dead, unproductive, or structurally unsound parts of plants, trees, or vines. It may also be used to shape plants to a desired size or to improve light penetration and air circulation. Pruning is an important part of plant care in orchards, vineyards, landscapes and home gardening, and helps to produce quality crops and healthy plants.
The first step in pruning is to remove dead or dying limbs and those that interfere with the health and safety of other branches, especially those that can fall onto people or structures below them. Inspect your plants often and remove these hazard branches as soon as they appear. Always use sharp, clean tools and disinfect them between each cut with rubbing alcohol or a commercially available garden product.
Keeping shrubs like azaleas and rhododendrons pruned right after they bloom is another important practice that encourages more flowers and promotes dense growth. This is also true of many fruit trees that should be pruned after they bear as well as evergreen hedges such as boxwood. For larger sized shrubs and trees, thinning cuts are often a good choice. These reduce overall density of the crown and allow more light to penetrate into the interior of the plant, improving overall health and vigor.
When pruning woody plants, it is best to make cuts at a 45-degree angle and slant them outward away from the trunk. This helps the plant compartmentalize the wound, limiting the opportunity for pathogens to enter and cause disease or decay. It is also recommended that you avoid the use of pruning paints or dressings, particularly those containing turpentine, mineral spirits, creosote, or pentachlorophenol compounds; these can seal in moisture and inhibit natural woundwood production and natural defenses.
In general, pruning should be done as needed to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. This can be as simple as removing damaged or dead branches, or more complex, such as shaping a plant’s form, opening up vistas, repairing storm damage, and providing clearance for structures and traffic.
Large shade trees are best left to qualified arborists or tree service professionals who have the proper equipment and training to safely prune them. However, even small ornamental and fruit trees can be pruned by a homeowner using the correct tools for the job. This will increase their longevity and help them look their best!
source https://treeaestheticswa.wordpress.com/2025/01/05/pruning-tips/
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