How To Hand-Prune Trees

Proper tree pruning helps maintain the health, safety, and aesthetic appeal of your landscape. When done correctly, pruning can promote growth, remove damaged or diseased branches, and shape trees for optimal structure. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the proper technique for pruning tree branches without causing harm to the tree.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Tree Pruning

Pruning is an overlooked aspect of tree care that offers numerous benefits when performed correctly. However, improper pruning techniques can lead to long-lasting damage and potentially compromise the tree’s health. 

Benefits of Proper Tree Pruning

Proper tree pruning offers several advantages for both the tree and your landscape, such as: 

• Promoting healthy growth by removing dead or diseased branches
• Improving the tree’s structure and stability
• Enhancing air circulation and sunlight penetration through the canopy
• Reducing the risk of falling branches during storms
• Maintaining the desired shape and size of the tree
• Increasing fruit or flower production in certain species

Risks of Improper Pruning

Incorrect pruning techniques can have serious consequences for trees, including:

• Creating entry points for pests and diseases
• Weakening the tree’s structure, making it more susceptible to storm damage
• Stunting growth and reducing the tree’s overall health
• Causing unsightly scarring or deformities
• Potentially, the eventual death of the tree

In the video, Cook shows an example of improperly pruning a branch. This involves making a single cut from the top of the branch without implementing the three-cut method. Making one cut from the top risks the weight of the branch ripping the bark, making it difficult for the tree to heal properly.

Tools and Materials Needed for Hand Pruning

Before beginning the pruning process, you’ll first need to gather the right tools and materials. Having the proper equipment ensures that you can make clean, precise cuts without causing unnecessary damage to the tree.

Essential Pruning Tools

• Sharp pruning saw
• Bypass pruners for smaller branches
• Loppers for medium-sized branches
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• Sturdy ladder

Optional Equipment

• Pole pruner for reaching higher branches
• Pruning sealer that can be helpful for certain tree species
• Disinfectant solution for cleaning tools between cuts

The Three-Cut Method for Pruning Large Branches

In the video, Cook demonstrates the proper technique for pruning large branches using the three-cut method. This approach prevents bark tearing and minimizes damage to the tree. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the three-cut method:

1. Make an undercut: About 12 inches away from the tree trunk, make a shallow cut on the underside of the branch, sawing about one-third of the way through.
2. Make a top cut: Move two inches further out from the undercut and saw from the top of the branch until it breaks free.
3. Final cut: With the majority of the weight removed, you’re ready to make the final cut. Remove the remaining stub by cutting just outside the branch collar, being careful not to damage this important area.

Understanding the Branch Collar

The branch collar is a slightly swollen area where the branch meets the trunk or a larger branch. It contains specialized cells that help the tree heal after pruning. When making the final cut, avoid cutting into the branch collar, as this can impede the tree’s natural healing process.

Best Practices for Tree Pruning

To ensure the best results when pruning your trees, follow these guidelines:

Timing Your Pruning

• Prune deciduous (broad-leafed) trees during their dormant season, typically late fall to early spring
• Avoid pruning in late spring or early summer when trees are actively growing
• Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches any time of year

Proper Cutting Techniques

• Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle to prevent water from pooling on the cut surface
• Use the appropriate tool for the branch size to ensure clean cuts
• Sanitize pruning tools between cuts, especially when dealing with diseased branches

What To Prune

• Eliminate crossing or rubbing branches
• Thin out dense areas to improve air circulation
• Shape the tree to maintain its natural form

Additional Tips for Specific Tree Types

Certain trees have unique pruning needs. Here are some additional tips for common tree types:

• Fruit trees: Regularly remove water sprouts and suckers. Thin the canopy to allow more light to reach the fruit-bearing branches.
• Evergreens: Focus on removing damaged or diseased branches. Avoid cutting back to bare wood, as this may not regrow.
• Flowering trees: Prune after blooming for trees that bloom in spring. For summer-flowering trees, prune in winter or early spring.

Common Tree Pruning Mistakes To Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when pruning trees. Here are some common errors to avoid:

• Topping trees: This severe pruning practice removes large sections of the crown and can lead to weak, unstable growth.
• Leaving branch stubs: Failing to cut close to the branch collar can prevent proper healing.
• Over-pruning: Removing too much of the tree’s canopy can stress the tree and reduce its ability to produce food.
• Making flush cuts: Cutting too close to the trunk removes the branch collar and hinders healing.
• Using dull tools: Blunt pruning equipment can create ragged cuts that are more susceptible to disease.

When To Call a Professional to Prune Trees

While many homeowners can handle basic pruning tasks, there are situations where it’s best to call in a professional arborist, such as:

• Pruning large trees or branches that require climbing
• Removing branches near power lines or structures
• Addressing complex structural issues in mature trees
• Dealing with severely damaged or diseased trees
• Pruning heritage or protected tree species