PRUNING 
The Pruning of trees and 
Pe y y-the subsequent treatment* 
Llss “of wounds is probably the 
VE most important of all tree 
maintenance practices. 
Proper and systematic prun- 
ing helps trees to” better 
Pruned withstand adverse environ- 
mental conditions. In addi- 
tion, properly pruned trees 
require less fertilizing, brac- 
ing, and spray materials to 
keep them healthy. Correct wound treatment will 
reduce losses due to wood-decay fungi. The two 
practices are so closely related that they must be 
considered together. 
Trees are pruned principally to preserve — 
their health and appearance, and fo prevent 
damage to life and property. 
PRUNING FOR HEALTH 
Broken, dead, or diseased branches are pruned 
_ to prevent decay-producing fungi from penetrating 
into the part of the treé to’ which these branches 
are attached. Live branches are removed to permit 
penetration of sunlight and circulation of. air 
through the canopy or to compensate for loss of 
roots. Overlapping branches and those that inter- 
fere with utility wires are removed to prevent rub- 
bing and eventual decay. Branch stubs are removed 
to promote. proper healing. The removal of many 
small branches rather than’ a few large ones not 
only reduces the amount of sunscald, but also makes 
the work less conspicuous and facilitates maintain- 
ing the desired shape. 
PRUNING FOR. APPEARANCE - 
An appreciation of landscape values and some 
idea of the normal form of the tree being pruned 
are essential for success in pruning trees. . 
PRUNING FOR 
SAFETY 
Dead, split, and broken. 
branches are a _ constant 
hazard to life and property. 
Danger from falling limbs 
is always greatest in trees 
along city streets and in ~ 
public parks. 
Tmproperly %, Pruned 
otra 830 PIONEER PRINTING CO. 
