how do u properly prune a tree? cut off main branches or just the smaller ones that grow on the main arms?

Answer 1

It depends on the type of tree and the look you are going for. In general you want to shape the tree by cutting off the small branches that are covered by others, too low, or growing in the wrong direction. Also any dead or diseased limbs should be removed. If a main branch is unsightly it can be removed but make sure to cover the wound with pruning paint. You can get the paint at any garden store. Good Luck!!

Answer 2

A lot of how much to trim depends on the health of the tree, what shape that your wanting to achieve, and how much shade you want. First, remove all the dead branches. the best time to do this is right after leafing out in the spring. then all the dead and winter killed growth will be plainly visible. if more shade is your goal cut the branches back about 10 ft. cut any really wayward limb back even with the others. this can be done in the spring. the result should be a dense canopy growth by summers end. For an old tree that has been wind damaged cuting back to the main arms may be the kindest cut of all. do this in Mid -January, when all the sap is down. Don't expect the tree to look to good the first 3 years after because the first year be mostly water branches. growing. New Main branches will emerge and when these are 10 - ft long cut the tip at a bud in the direction you want it to grow. then allow the new fork branches to grow about 6ft. and again the ends in the direction you want it to to grow. continue to shape as needed. the tree should shape up nicely.

Answer 3

This is what I have always heard about pruning and trimming. If you have a branch that is 'Y ' shaped with a third branch in center remove center and trim the others. Also when trimming. trim to allow birds to fly thru branches. That way you know you have removed the right amount.
Always make sure to trim or prune at right time of year. For example: I have a type of flowering crab that cannot be trimmed until after Dec 21st.

Good Luck !

Answer 4

Trim back the smaller outer branches. Try not to cut the main branches any more then necessary. If you need to make it smaller still wait a while for the back branches to start budding more before trimming the ends again.

Answer 5

Iagree with all the above 1 exception dont like pruning paint.now let me answer your question with a question where do you live.what kind of tree.how old is tree .example you can cut more from a peach tree than you can from an apple . talk to a good tree person.they could even give you a bid[get more than one]to do it for you.

Answer 6

depends on what kind of tree it is. a latge tree needs heavy pruning a small tree like a fruit tree needs to be nipped back only do this in winter or fall

Answer 7

YOU WILL HAVE TO GIVE MORE INFORMATION AS IT FIRST DEPENDS ON WHAT THE TREE IS THEY ARE NOT ALL PRUNED THE SAME ALLSO IT DEPENDS ON WHAT YOU ARE TRYING TO ACHIVE

Answer 8

steve's got the answer