Tree Resources for Residents

With all tree pruning, it’s good to keep in mind that every cut to live wood can lead to future decay of the tree – the larger the wound, the more likely it is to result in decay. Although every tree species handles decay slightly differently, pruning cuts should rarely exceed two inches in diameter.
Most trees should be trained or pruned to have a single leading stem (or “leader”) that doesn’t compete with parallel (or “codominant”) stems. Similarly, new branches that leave the trunk vertically should be removed early on. These types of branch unions eventually produce “included bark” (a term used to describe a narrow branch bark ridge that creates a wedge between a tree’s trunk and branch, worsening with each season’s new growth). These types of branches will ultimately fail, leading to trunk decay.
Remove branches that have the potential to interfere with traffic, infrastructure, or visibility. This preventative pruning prevents large wounds in the future.
Pruning during winter dormancy provides you with a better view of the issues you’ll be looking for. It also minimizes the spread of tree pests and pathogens.
Utilize the Three Cut Method for larger branch removals:
Finally, it is especially important to identify the goal(s) of a pruning project before you or your licensed tree contractor begin. Understand that indiscriminate “thinning” or “cleaning” of the canopy can lead to unnecessary risk of decay or instability for the tree.\