Tree pruning is probably the most frequently performed treatment in arboriculture and is done almost without question. While some negative impacts always result from the removal of plant parts, in most cases if you are dealing with a reputable arborist the benefits of tree pruning will more than outweigh any negatives impacts on your tree.

A few of the most common reasons for tree pruning and benefits that results from tree pruning are:

• Clearance pruning for buildings, pedestrians, vehicles or trees blocking signs
• Structural improvement of the branching within the crown of the tree
• Reducing potential for storm damage
• Disease or insect pest management
• The tree will have a more pleasing appearance
• Increased sunlight to lawn areas under a tree
• Reduction or elimination of any potential hazards in the tree

To accomplish the job of pruning your tree an arborist uses one or more methods, or types, of tree pruning. These tree pruning methods include:

• Crown cleaning
• Crown thinning
• Crown raising
• Crown reduction
• Crown restoration
• Espalier pruning
• Vista pruning

More details on the specifics involved in each of these pruning methods will follow in future posts.