After one or two years, your tree may need periodic pruning to ensure both the tree’s health and a pleasing shape for future growth. Prune to correct the following situations:

• Remove dead and dying branches to prevent insect attack and disease.
  
  
• Remove crossed branches or branches that form a fork or tightly angled V. This prevents poor structure and growth form. Prune away the branch that contributes the least structural benefit to the tree’s crown.
  

Reasons To Prune A Tree

Protect a tree’s trunk from damaged called girdling. It can be caused from lawn care machinery and items tied around the base of the tree.

3 Simple Steps

Determine the location of the cut. Then use a pruning saw to remove a branch with three separate cuts:

1. Under Cut
   
   Make an under cut about one foot from the final cut location. Cut only about one-third of the way into the branch.
   
   
   
2. Top Cut
   
   Make a top cut a few inches further out from the under cut. Cut through the branch. This removes the bulk of the branch’s weight to prevent splitting on the final cut.
   
   
   
3. Final Cut 
   
   Make the final cut to remove the remaining stub. Do not cut the branch flush with the trunk. Instead, cut at the branch collar, the point a few inches from the trunk where the branch becomes narrower.
   
   

Caution: Do not prune trees near power lines! Call your utility provider for service.