Pruning

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Pruning

Pruning is a horticultural practice that alters the form and growth of a plant. Based on aesthetics and science, pruning can also be considered preventive maintenance. Many problems may be prevented by pruning correctly during formative years for a tree or shrub.

Reasons for pruning

Prune to promote plant health
• Remove dead or dying branches injured by disease, severe insect infestation, animals, storms, or other adverse mechanical damage.
• Remove branches that rub together.
• Remove branch stubs.
• Avoid topping trees.
• Removing large branches leaves stubs that can cause several health problems. It also destroys the plant's natural shape and promotes suckering and development of weak branch structures.