Pruning is the practice of selectively removing diseased, dead, non-productive or structurally unsound plant material from crop and landscape plants. It can also be used to shape a tree or shrub and to manage the overall size and structure of a plant.
Proper pruning will increase the health, safety and value of a plant. It will reduce or prevent rot, insect intrusion and decay, allow sunlight and air to reach all parts of the plant, improve the appearance of the landscape, and help with storm and wind damage mitigation.
Ideally, training young trees and shrubs during their formative years will encourage the growth of desirable branching patterns. However, this is not always possible or practical, so pruning may be required to train a plant to grow as desired. This type of pruning is known as remedial pruning and can be done at any time.
When a plant becomes unruly and begins to overtake a garden space, crowd out a pathway or swallow up a support it is time for pruning. This type of pruning is referred to as remedial or renovation pruning and can be done at any time of the year.
It is very important to recognize and understand the branch bark ridge (BBR) or branch collar. This is a key anatomical feature on all woody plants that helps in woundwood production and is essential for a tree or shrub to heal properly. It appears as a slightly swollen area where a branch meets a limb or the trunk. It is vital when making a pruning cut to always leave the BBR intact.
Another benefit of pruning is to promote fruit production. When a tree is not overcrowded with branches, it can better use its energy to produce healthy, vibrant fruits. This is especially important in the winter when a tree stores its energies for the summer growing season.
In many cases, it is best to prune spring-blooming shrubs right after they finish blooming. This is because they typically flower on old wood and removing the spent flowers allows new branches to develop on this season’s wood. This can also help with disease control and preventing the overcrowding of the shrub.
Lastly, it is very important to prune diseased or damaged limbs as soon as they are noticed. This will not only help to reduce the spread of the disease and the potential for further damage from insects, but it will also allow the remaining limbs to take up the stored energy that would normally be used for fruit production. This is called abscission or shedding. It is important to remember that if this is not done correctly, it could negatively impact the health of the plant or the entire tree. It is best to consult a professional to avoid causing more harm than good.
source https://ontimetreelopping.wordpress.com/2024/11/04/the-benefits-of-pruning-your-trees-and-shrubs/
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