What is considered pruning?

Pruning occurs when branches are selectively removed from a tree. The goal is to eliminate unwanted branches, improve the structure of the tree and direct new, healthy growth. By making the pruning cuts in a certain order, the total number of cuts is significantly reduced. The expert pruner first removes all dead, broken, sick or problematic limbs by cutting them at the point of origin or returning them to a strong branch or lateral shoot.

Often, when this material is removed, the canopy is opened wide enough so that there is no need for further pruning. Pruning is often considered to be one of the most intimidating aspects of gardening. Fearful of making a mistake, many people simply avoid it altogether or cut plants indiscriminately in a vain attempt to limit their size. Others make pruning cuts just because they think it's something they have to do.

When plants are pruned a lot or without a clear purpose in mind, they can end up in a worse situation than if they were left alone. Some of the main reasons for pruning are to maintain plant vigor, create and preserve a good structure, increase fruit and flower production, improve health, improve ornamental characteristics and limit plant size. Minimizing pruning involves more than understanding how to make the right cuts. You also need to know how the plant will respond and what it will look like in the future.

This should be determined by the plant's natural growth habit, growth rate, height and dispersion rather than by the look you want. Plants should be selected and placed in the landscape based on their mature size and shape. Plants that are not suitable for the site where they were planted usually need drastic pruning to maintain their size and will remain an ongoing maintenance problem until removed or replaced. Plants that are allowed to grow according to their natural forms generally require very little pruning, while others that are cut or trained to give them an unusual shape will need frequent care.

Always buy high-quality, well-shaped plants that have been trained in the nursery to avoid discomfort and headaches in the future. Pruning and training young trees and shrubs helps encourage the development of strong branches and an attractive, balanced frame. If done correctly in the nursery and for the first few years in the landscape, this formative pruning will minimize the time and labor needed to care for them later on. It also goes a long way in ensuring the long-term health and stamina of newly planted trees and shrubs.

While well-pruned trees are healthier, they're also stronger. Safety issues aren't usually taken into account, but they're definitely a good reason to prune trees. Pruning the trees in your garden creates a safe environment for your family and friends. Talking to a professional tree service - cairnstreeloppingpros.com will give you tips on how to take care of your tree.