Tree Pruning: What Do Trees Think?

This 6-page publication explains the physiological and physical changes that happen within trees as a response to pruning. Guiding young and medium-aged trees to develop good branch architecture is key to sustainable tree plantings. Good architecture created through structural pruning is enormously beneficial and should be the primary objective for pruning. Helping the tree develop better architecture can reduce the chance for failure when nature gets nasty. The benefits of pruning far outweigh the negatives when done correctly--with the tree in mind!

Urban Forestry, Tree Pruning, Department of Forestry & Natural Resources