Trees in nature don’t get pruned in a conventional manner. However they do still get pruned. They are pruned by nature, by storms, by wildlife, by bacteria and fungii. Weak branches and trees are blown over, infested or eaten by animals or microorganisms. Weak trees or branches do not survive in nature, that is natures way, it is how trees evolve.When pruning a tree we should aim to do the same.
In urban environments many trees are taken out of their natural habitat. They used to co-exist in protected forest communities. They can now grow wider than they usually would in a forest situation and they can become thicker with foliage. They can become heavy and exposed to the wind. Trees in urban environments need to be maintained by us to protect not only our safety but also for the health and longevity of the tree.
When pruning we should consider work in this order:
- Firstly aim to improve structural strength, reduce end weight of heavy lateral limbs, remove branches with poor taper, remove or reduce branches or trunk sections with poor unions or attachments to the trunk. A strong tree is a safe tree.
- Secondly we can look at removing wounded, dead, dying or diseased tree limbs or sections to prevent the spread of decay. A healthy tree is a safe tree.
- Thirdly, we can now look at pruning the tree for amenity, to clear buildings and services, enhancing shape, views and beauty.
- Lastly, we should look at pruning from a holistic approach. What happens when a tree branch breaks off from the wind in nature? It falls to the ground, decays and becomes food for the tree again. Tree pruning by humans should also be accompanied by similar fertilisation, by mulching the area around the tree after significant pruning works are carried out.