Consider these tips regarding proper timing and methods of pruning trees:
· Late winter or early spring is an excellent time to prune trees. Advantages of late winter or early spring pruning are that gardeners can clearly see the tree structure and remove appropriate branches.
· It is essential to make proper cuts when pruning trees. Do not make flush cuts. Flush cutting results in large wounds which heal slowly. On the other hand, do not leave stubs. When pruning trees, make the final cut just beyond the branch collar and the branch bark ridge.
· To prevent the peeling of bark and the creation of large wounds, use the 3-cut procedure when cutting large branches. Make the first cut about 1 to 2 feet from the main branch or trunk. Cut upward and go about halfway through the branch. Make the second cut slightly beyond the first. Cut downward completely through the branch. Make the final cut just beyond the branch collar.
· Do not apply wound dressings to pruning cuts. In the past it was a standard practice to seal pruning cuts with wound dressings or paints. However, scientific research has found that wound dressings actually inhibit or delay the healing of wounds, don't keep out water and insects, and may provide a more favorable environment for decay-causing microorganisms.
· Some trees, such as maple, birch, and elm, bleed heavily when pruned in late winter or early spring. However, the heavy bleeding doesn't harm the trees. Heavy bleeding of susceptible trees can be avoided by pruning in late June or early July.
(Source: Horticulture and Home Pest News)
For additional information on pruning trees, pick up a copy of Pm-1304, Pruning Shade and Flowering Trees, at your local county extension office.