Pruning Trees Why do we prune trees? For the tree’s health For flowers, foliage, fruit, and stems For a pleasing shape and size For safety

Tools Used in Pruning

Care of Pruning Tools and Equipment Provides users with more effective pruning Extends the life of the tool Wipe blades after each use Clean periodically with soap and water Sanitize or disinfect if tools come in contact with diseased wood Keep tools sharp Oil tools often Know how to properly use the tool Use extra caution around utility lines

Deciduous Trees and Shrubs Pruning Schedule Have an active growth season in spring and sometimes summer Drop leaves in autumn Spring-flowering Summer-flowering Shade Fruit The best time to prune depends on the plant’s growth and when it flowers

Evergreen Trees and Shrubs Pruning Schedule Evergreens do not shed leaves like deciduous plants No obvious dormant season Pruning in winter months reduces sap and resin flow Broadleaf Evergreens: Prune before new growth in the spring Narrowleaf Evergreens (conifers): Needleleaf: Prune only when the tan candle is present Scale-leaf: Prune before new growth in the spring

Tree Structure

Pruning Specific Parts of a Tree Areas for removal: Dead, diseased, or injured parts Suckers and limbs that rub together Branches growing in the center Parallel branches Drooping branches

Pruning Cuts Three basic cuts for pruning trees: Drop-crotch Thinning Heading

Transplanting Stock Ball-and-burlap Bare-root Container Rooted cuttings Seedlings In Oklahoma, trees are commonly planted during their dormant stage: Early December to March

Transplanting Trees and Shrubs Planting Preparations Prepare the soil Choose transplanted stock carefully Plant trees and shrubs at correct depth Care of transplanted Trees and Shrubs Water plants regularly Supplement with fertilizer if needed Prune young trees

Mulching The spreading of mulch over the soil Recommended when planting outdoors to reduce maintenance and promote healthy plant growth Conserves moisture by reducing evaporation Reduces compacting of a soil Helps soil maintain a constant temperature Can be either organic or inorganic