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The four most popular tree pruning methods for general pruning are crown thinning, crown raising, crown reduction and crown cleaning. You may notice that each pruning method involves the crown of the tree. That's because the crown of the tree is essential for producing leaves for photosynthesis.

Ask an Arborist: What are the Rules of Pruning? Branches and leaves will occupy at least ⅔ of total height. All branches will be <½ the diameter of the trunk, at point of attachment, this keeps branches from competing with the trunk. No more than ⅓ of live foliage will be removed in a year.

Use a ladder or extension ladder to reach the branches. Make sure the ladder is stable and set it up against the tree in such a way that you will have a good grip on the tree limb when you cut it. Wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your hands and eyes. Use a saw with a sharp blade to make the cuts.

3:23 5:24 How to Prune Trees - YouTube YouTube Start of suggested clip End of suggested clip This is the flared base of the branch. Cut downward and outward close to perpendicular to the limb.MoreThis is the flared base of the branch. Cut downward and outward close to perpendicular to the limb. The final cut will be made as close to the tree as possible without damaging the collar.

A proper pruning cut does not damage either the branch bark ridge or the branch collar. A proper cut begins just outside the branch bark ridge and angles down away from the stem of the tree, avoiding injury to the branch collar (Fig. 6B).

The 1/3 rule involves cutting about 1/3 of wood during any pruning activity. This moderate pruning practice is a balanced approach to thinning out shrubs to stimulate new growth. The plant loses a good amount of stems, usually on the top section, allowing more light and air to enter the inside of the plant.

Tips for Pruning Trees On young trees, protect the leader, or main trunk, from competition. ... When branches rub or cross each other, remove one. Remove suckers or side shoots from the base of the tree using a knife or scissors. Prune lower limbs to expose more trunk. Lightly prune upper limbs to enhance the natural shape.

Basic Pruning Principles Know when to prune. Do not prune in late summer or fall. ... Know where to cut. ALWAYS prune back to or just above a growing point (branch or bud) or to the soil line. ... Remove problematic branches first. Completely remove the following: ... Thin out dense growth. ... Prune regularly.