If pruning is necessary, prune dead and dying branches properly to help the tree heal its branch wounds faster and to reduce the chances for infection that could lead to decay. (See illustration 23)

Proper pruning will help the tree, while improper pruning only causes the tree more trouble . . .

Serious trouble can result from improper pruning unless you these steps as illustrated:


1. Undercut
2. Upper cut to remove branch
3. Flush cut

Editor's Note: You should always remove a limb using the above three steps. In effect you are making three cuts. You remove the limbs weight in step one and two and remove the stub in step three.

Prevent by Proper Pruning

Prune old dead stubs properly. (See illustration 28)

Many microorganisms use old dead stubs as springboards into the trunk. (See illustrations 29 and 30)


When a tree top is broken, prune the broken top. A vigorous branch near the broken top usually becomes the new leader. When pruned properly, the tree will heal its wound faster and the likelihood of decay developing decreases. If decay does develop, it is usually limited to the old leader. (See illustrations 31, 32, and 33)


Prune away any branches that might be on a collision course with a building, power line, or path. If cut when it is still small, its wounds will heal faster and decay will not start. Branches do not raise in height as a tree grows. (See illustrations 34, and 35)

How To Prevent Wound Problems - Part II

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