How to Prune a Tree - A Graphic Tutorial

How to Make a Pruning Cut - Part I

The Pruning Cut

USFS

To find the proper place to cut a branch, look for the branch collar that grows from the stem tissue at the underside of the base of the branch. On the upper surface, there is usually a branch bark ridge that runs (more or less) parallel to the branch angle, along the stem of the tree. A proper pruning cut does not damage either the branch bark ridge or the branch collar.

A proper cut begins just outside the branch bark ridge and angles down away from the stem of the tree, avoiding injury to the branch collar. Make the cut as close as possible to the stem in the branch joint, but outside the branch bark ridge, so that stem tissue is not injured and the wound can seal in the shortest time possible. If the cut is too far from the stem, leaving a branch stub, the branch tissue usually dies and woundwood forms from the stem tissue. Wound closure is delayed because the woundwood must seal over the stub that was left.

Index: How to Prune a Tree - A Graphic Tutorial

1. The Reasons You Prune a Tree
2. Important Tree Pruning Method #1 - Crown Thinning
3. Important Tree Pruning Method #2 - Crown Raising
4. Important Tree Pruning Method #3 - Crown Reduction
5. How to Make a Pruning Cut - Part I
6. How to Make a Pruning Cut - Part II
7. Pruning Techniques That Will Cause a Tree Harm
8. When to Prune Trees Without Showy Flowers
9. When to Prune Trees With Showy Flowers