Pruning is a major part of arborist work. Pruning helps maintain balance throughout a tree. There are many reasons to have a tree pruned. The main reason most pruning is done is to create a strong and healthy structure in a tree. A strong structure builds resiliency from winds and snow, as well as also creating a more esthetically appealing tree.

Here in Central Oregon another major reason to prune is to create a fire-resistant landscape. By limbing up low-lying branches, this will remove ladder fuels that lift heat and flames higher in a trees canopy help prevent deadly crown fires.

Another reason to prune is to help remove long heavy limbs that can easily break under those snow loads or wind events. On occasion branches will reach way out to find accessible light, unfortunately, this often happens over our homes (or our neighbors). These heavy branches do not always need to be removed entirely, just cut back to a place where the branches can be more balanced and able to regrow in a manner that has greater strength.

Lastly, pruning is a key to providing better fruit production or flowering. Fruit trees need to be pruned at proper times of the year in accordance with what the output is required. Fruit needs lots of sunlight and proper air flow to create the best possible fruit you can grow.

Specialized Pruning-

Specialized pruning is where I focus on pruning a tree as well as bending branches with wire or stylizing for a specific effect. This falls closely with much of the bonsai work that I do, but in a more specific manner to landscape trees (or shrubs). This style of pruning is focused on shaping without the look of a hedge prune.