​Pruning

​We prune trees for ourselves, not for the health of the tree. 

The key to tree health is to know that when we prune, a wound is created on the tree.  Tree wounds don't heal, but instead the tree compartmentalizes the wound (covers with woundwood).  So always remember, a wound, is a wound, is a wound! 

So how do we minimize negative impacts to our tree(s)?  Proper pruning and pruning at a time when all the environmental factors (heat/drought) we can't control are not present.

Step 1: Why and what am I pruning? 

The illustration below provided by the A&M Texas Forest Service shows some of the reasons to prune.

why to prune.png

Other reasons may be clearance, such as but not limited to 15 foot vertical clearance over roadways and 8 foot clearance over pedestrian areas.  These heights are set by city code.
 
Step 2:  Best time to prune?   

In Dallas,  the  “best time” would be during our winter months as the temperatures are cooler, when there is normally more rainfall and less insect activity.  All of these factors decrease stress on the tree.
 
But this is not always possible. If you have a broken branch that is at risk of causing damage or harm, remove it as soon as possible.  Below is a diagram demonstrating how you can make the proper cut and give your tree the best chance for the woundwood to cover and compartmentalize the wound.

Step 3: How to prune

See the bulge in the picture below?  That’s the branch collar!

branch collar.png


Now what?  See the location of the branch collar in the illustration below and cut just beyond.


pruning a lg limb.png

Illustration provided by A&M Texas Forest Service