Ornamental Pruning

Why do we prune?

Manage growth Correct structural problems while the tree or shrub is small. Aesthetic beauty Because it is fun!

Types of Pruning

Thinning - the act of removing competing foliage within the crown of a tree or shrub to improve air flow, improve looks and to enhance structure.  This type of pruning has many applications.

Reduction pruning - A very useful tool in keeping  trees and shrubs small(er).   Larger trees with defects such as decay, weak crotches, etc can be preserved by making them shorter and less of a target to wind.  Many trees are removed by tree companies which could have been given a longer lease on life by reduction pruning .  Reduction pruning relies on cutting branches back to natural growing points and is NOT tree topping.

Structural pruning - Many structural problems trees encounter could be avoided if the branching structure is pruned while the tree is small.  Co-dominate stems with sharp angled crotches or "forks" can be the "weak link in the chain" resulting in breakage in storms.

Clouding - a type of thinning whereby openings are made to allow sunlight to reach inside the plant a to encourage inside growth.  This is how boxwoods should be pruned.

Shearing - Reserved for shrubs - where by the outside foliage is cut along an even plane.  I often see Large hollies and hemlocks at the corners of houses which are sheared.  These become a maintenance nightmare as the act of shearing stimulates new growth immediately.

Natural pruning - a form of reduction pruning  whereby  leaders are pruned back to a natural growing points.  The plant looks more natural and rapid regrowth is not stimulated as with shearing. 

Deadwood removal - Once a limb, branch or any part of a tree or shrub dies, the plant is through with it.  Removal of deadwood makes trees and shrubs much more attractive.  As an act of sanitation , it is also a good practice.

Tree Topping - a very poor practice which should be avoided if at all possible.  Topping messes up the metabolism of trees resulting in rapid regrowth , causes massive root death and opens the door to potential future structural problems.  Topping creates trees with un-natural ugly crowns.  One could argue that this is a form of reduction pruning with the same effects as shearing .  Trees are not shrubs!  However, there are cases in storm damage repair whereby topping cuts would be a good option in restoring a damaged crown.