411homerepair.com

The Art and Science of Pruning: a Short Introduction

by Dan Eskelson on Apr 30, 2012

Please also visit part 2, The Art and Science of Pruning

Most landscape plants need regular pruning, whether to preserve a loose, natural form or to create tight,compact shapes. Each tree or shrub has its own, unique pruning needs, depending on variety, soil type, exposure, and desired result. For instance, we prune a birch or Hawthorne for ornamental value, but prune an apple or plum for fruit production; basic pruning rules apply to both, but final techniques and results are vastly different. Each plant will change its pruning requirements from year to year.

The "art" of pruning seeks to create a mature form throughout several seasons - or several decades - it is an art not to be hurried. The "science" of pruning requires knowledge of plant types, growth habits, flowering or fruiting characteristics and the mastery of a few important skills.

Pruning stimulates and directs growth, maintains plant health and creates a form to support the "crop" (foliage, flowers or fruit). Two basic techniques, heading back and thinning are used to create form. The desired form for standard-size fruit trees and many ornamentals is a vase shape, with four to seven strong, well-placed "leaders". These leaders from the framework which holds future growth. In contrast to the vase shape, dwarf and semi-dwarf fruit trees and some ornamentals are pruned to a central leader, or modified central leader form. The early shaping of young trees and shrubs is extremely important for the development of a strong, well balanced framework.

Any cut made to a small branch must be made just above a bud. Pruning ExampleThis heading back influences the form of the plant by directing growth according to the position of the bud and by stimulating growth below the cut. Thinning creates form by removing entire branches. On vigorously growing plants (apples and many others) thinning is required for most of the plant's life. With yearly pruning, Pruning Limbs however, thinning of wood older than one year is seldom required. If larger, saw cuts are necessary, follow the procedure.

Although many plants are pruned during dormancy (winter-early spring), several important exceptions exist. Shrubs which bloom in early spring (rhododendron, azalea, forsythia and others) have developed flower buds the previous season and should be pruned shortly after bloom. Maples will "bleed" excessively if cut in early spring and are best pruned in fall. Evergreens are pruned shortly after the full development of the new season's growth.

Pruning maintains plant health by removing dead, diseased and damaged wood. Diseased wood should be removed from the site immediately; in severe cases such as firelight in pears, the cutting tool must be dipped in a weak bleach solution after each cut. The importance of proper cutting techniques cannot be overemphasized. Well built tools, with razor-sharp edges, must be used; a ragged cut will not heal, leaving the plant susceptible to rots and disease. For the same reason, cuts must be made at precisely correct locations. Do not use tree paint or any other sealer on pruning cuts.

The above guidelines are meant as a very brief survey of basic pruning purposes and techniques. Before making too many cuts, the aspiring pruner should first attain further knowledge through reading and/or lessons from an experienced landscape professional. This fascinating art and science is well worth the time and energy invested in learning.

Latest Articles

Before You Sign: How Home Inspections Identify Hidden Hazards in Your Future Home

Buying a home is exciting, but hidden dangers can turn that dream into a nightmare if not addressed early on. Beyond what is visible during a...

on Oct 18, 2024

The Appeal and Longevity of Natural Oil Finishes for Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors exude warmth, character, and timeless appeal in any home. To preserve and enhance these qualities, choosing the right finish is...

on May 17, 2024

Understanding Indonesia’s Real Estate Investment Laws for Foreigners

Indonesia, with its stunning landscapes, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and renowned hospitality, has emerged as a top destination for foreigners...

on Jan 25, 2024

Real Estate Development in Asian Cities

In many Asian cities, the rapid pace of urban development has led to the decline of historic districts, areas once teeming with cultural richness...

on Jan 25, 2024

Shower Envy: Elevating Your Bathroom with a Stunning Walk-In Shower

Are you tired of the same old routine in your bathroom? It might be time to consider a change, and one way to elevate your bathroom to a new level...

on Jan 22, 2024

Actions

More DIY Articles

When to Invest in the Best Possible Garage Doors

Everyone wants durable garage doors. But some people have no choice but to choose the best possible garage door for their property. Are you one of...

Doors / Garages

Tips for You to Make a Practical and a Well Designed Kitchen Cabinet

Most of the time kitchen cabinets are made from Oak, Maple, Pine, Cherry, Hickory, Poplar, Alder, and Birch. When you are thinking of designing...

Kitchen / Bathrooms

Top 10 Power Tools Every Builder Needs

Power tools are a category of tools that require less human input. These tools are specifically meant to make most basic functions in the life of a...

Tools / Woodworking

Changing the Colors in Your Life with a Little Paint

One of the easiest ways to change your house when you’re feeling the need for something new is to paint a room. Many people get tired of looking at...

Painting / Wallpaper

Dryer Vent Cleaning: When, Why and How?

Your dryer vent allows the hot air from the dryer to pass out of doors, however, over time the vent dryer can become clogged with lint resulting in...

Cleaning / Maintenance

Contact Us | Submit Article | 411homerepair © 2024