Common Myths About Tree Pruning

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Common Myths About Tree Pruning
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Trees will grow just fine even without pruning
• Cutting too close to the trunk will help the tree
  to heal quickly
• Pruning wounds that are more than three inches in
  diameter must be coated with wound dressing
• Prune back the tree's crown to compensate for
  root loss during transplanting
• Pruning certain species of trees early in the
  spring will cause bleeding

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Trees Will Grow Just Fine Even Without Pruning
It is true that forest plants grow perfectly well
with nature's own way of pruning. But the trees
in most suburban yards have different needs. Most
suburban trees require some form of pruning to
keep and maintain their shape and to eliminate
fast-growing water sprouts. When pruning a tree,
keep in mind that you should never remove more
than 1/3 of the crown in just one pruning.
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Cutting Too Close To The Trunk will help The Tree
To Heal Quickly
Trees don't actually heal, meaning they can't
replace damaged or lost tissue. They can only
cover their wounds by growing new layers of wood.
When pruning, avoid pruning too close to the
tree's parent limb and retain the branch collar.
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Pruning Wounds That Are More Than Three Inches In
Diameter Must Be Coated With Wound Dressing
Tree wound dressings or sealants are
petroleum-based products that are traditionally
used to seal freshly cut wood and prevent decay
or insect infestation. However, studies show that
using wound dressing, seals in moisture, causes
decay, inhibits compartmentalization and
eventually causes cracks that may expose the tree
to pathogens. It also slows down the production
of new layers of wood.
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Prune Back The Trees Crown To Compensate For
Root Loss During Transplanting
It is not a good idea to prune trees after
transplanting except when there is a need to
remove dead or broken branches. The crown of
younger trees should not be pruned back to make
up for the lost roots. Minimal pruning is
necessary during the first three years of
planting the tree.
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Pruning Certain Species Of Trees Early In The
Spring Will Cause Bleeding
It is true that there certain trees like maples
and birches that "bleed" from pruning cuts done
early in the spring. However, this bleeding
doesn't hurt or stress the trees. Bleeding often
occurs when a tree loses its sap which is quite
inconsequential in the general health of the
tree. With some exceptions, you can prune trees
anytime of the year. But the best time to do it
is during the tree's dormancy or after the
flowering period. The worst pruning time is when
the tree has just leafed out during spring.
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