Pruning is amongst one of those miniature ventures people perform on a regular basis that looks uncomplicated from a viewer’s prospect. However, once you get into the detailed working mechanism of it, things can get intricate.
Your mom does not simply take out a pruning shear, and start cutting branches at will. There are specific reasons for every branch she removes. As one says, in a pruning process, not a single leaf is removed without any relevant reason. It is, therefore, of extreme significance that you, as a beginner, understand the concept of pruning and why it is necessary.
- Get the right tools
There are various types of shears designed to be specifically utilized for different pruning methods or requirements. The most common type of pruning shear is the Bypass Pruner. They are most effective if you want to remove small branches that are easily reachable as well. For larger branches, you can use Anvil Loopers, and similarly, for branches at higher heights, you can use Pole Pruners.
- Get safety equipment
You do not have to prove anything to anybody by skipping out on safety gears. Pruning may seem like a harmless and simple process. However, a small dead twig in your eye can change the entire complexity of the situation. It is, therefore, highly advisable to keep your safety goggles, hand gloves, and helmets (depending on the size of the tree) before pruning.
- Analyze the tree first
Do not start pruning as soon as you get your hands on the shears. There may be significant dangers lurking above your head in the form of dead branches that can fall at the slightest sign of disturbance. Analyzing the tree help you understand the physical structure overview, and assist you in making a strategic pruning approach.
- Always remove dead branches first
Dead branches are the ones that posses the biggest threat, both for you and the tree. They can ruin the integrity of the other branches and also restrict their growth as well. Also, they are always a significant threat to anyone sitting/ standing beneath. Dead branches should, therefore, be your first priority.
- Identify the diseased branches
After dead branches, comes its smaller sibling, the diseased branches. Unlike dead branches, they are not easily identified. All dead branches are diseased, but all diseased branches are not dead. The diseased branches can appear healthy and normal, but underneath they eat away the nutrients and compromise the health of the nearby branches as well. They can be identified by their inferior leaves (yellow or brown patches) or their poor quality of fruit production as well. Removing these branches at their early stage can save you a lot of inconvenience in the later stages.
- Prevent the formation of stubs
Leaving a stub is one of the most common practices when it comes to pruning. So much so that it has almost become a common standard. However, the formation of stubs is one of the most basic things you would want to avoid if you care about the tree. Stubs can act as an ideal venue for insects to creep in and destroy the health of the other nearby branches. Moreover, stubs formation can also delay the natural healing process of the branch as well.
- Knowing when to prune
Pruning is a delicate process, but most importantly, it is a systematic and seasonal exercise as well. There are various ideal seasons for pruning different types of trees. For example, ornamental grasses, spring-flowering trees, and evergreen shrubs are ideal for early summer pruning. Whereas, sappy trees and flower trees are ideal for Fall season pruning.
Tree pruning requires a good deal of patience and proper knowledge about the different pruning techniques as well. It can be specifically difficult for newbies, and hence, taking the assistance of a professional Sydney tree company can be a good option in the initial stages.
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