Image via Andy Sotiriou on Getty ImagesTree pruning is the process of removing certain branches of a tree to promote health, control the direction of growth, remove diseased or damaged branches and reduce the tree's height. Depending on the reason for pruning, techniques will vary. Over-pruning or pruning incorrectly can cause serious damage to the tree and may spread disease.
Tools used for pruning are fairly specialized. Rope saws, pole pruners, loppers and portable bucksaws are essential pruning tools, and should be sharp and clean to avoid damaging the tree and spreading disease.
The best time to prune trees is during the dormant season, in late fall or winter, when the stress to the tree will be minimal and the risk of fungus infection and insect infestation will be lower.
While light pruning, such as removing a few dead or diseased branches, can safely be done by a novice, heavier pruning jobs should be done by a tree care expert. There are many rules when it comes to successfully pruning a tree, and serious pruning is an art that requires a great deal of experience, intuition and foresight.
For pruning and other expert tree care services, Missouri residents in Kansas City can contact Cartwright Tree Care.