August 2008 The appearance of a properly pruned tree is like a good hair cut: hardly noticeable at first glance. Original Power Point Created by Dr. Teri Hamlin May, 2002 Modified by Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office June, 2002 Arboricultural Pruning

August 2008 Pruning at Planting: –If it’s a quality tree, pruning is not necessary Do not prune to compensate for root loss –latest research shows pruning does not help overcome transplant shock Never cut main branches of tree back to stubs (Topping Trees)

August 2008 Why Prune Removal of dead, broken, diseased, or insect-infested branches Maintain desired shape & size Promote healthy vigorous growth Promote flowering & fruiting

August 2008 Pruning Tools

August 2008 Pruning Technique Shearing vs. Thinning

August 2008 Making the Cut

August 2008 Pruning Young Trees A. Remove suckers B. Remove low growing branches that interfere C. Remove upright growing shoots D. Remove inward growing branches E. Remove branches that compete with central leader

August 2008 Pruning Time General Rule Plants that flower before May –Prune after bloom Azalea, Dogwood, Forsythia, Redbud, Rhododendron, Clematis, Saucer Magnolia, Flowering Cherry, Climbing roses Plants that flower after May –Prune prior to spring growth Camellia, Chaste Tree, Crape Myrtle, Nandina, Sweetshrub, Abelia, Sourwood, Floribunda roses

August 2008 North Georgia Pruning Time January - March Broadleaf evergreen Needleaf evergreen Renewal Pruning Large Tree Limbs

August 2008 Large Limbs A. Make partial cut from underneath B. Make a second cut from above several inches out –allows the limb to fall C. Complete job with final cut just outside the branch collar

August 2008 Pruning Limbs An improper cut made through the branch collar will take 3x longer to heal