Older trees: Older, established trees, if properly trained when young, require little pruning. Young trees also need corrective pruning to remove crossing branches, double leaders, watersprouts, and root suckers. Remove no more than 1∕3 of the total crown of a tree at one time. Scaffold branches to be maintained in the tree should be selected such that they are 12-18 inches apart, are evenly distributed around the trunk and have wide crotch angles. Lower branches can be removed to raise the canopy, if desired. Young trees: After a young tree is established for two to five years, the tree can be pruned to encourage a well-branched canopy. These trees need foliage to produce carbohydrates (sugars) that are then transported to the root system for initiation of new roots. Newly planted trees: Newly planted trees should not be pruned unless a branch is broken, diseased or dead. The ultimate height and spread, in addition to location of overhead powerlines, should be taken into account when selecting trees for landscaping. In addition to pruning, selecting plants that are suited to your environment and location are very important. Pruning can also increase the safety of a tree by removing broken, diseased, dead, or dying branches.

Pruning can help control the size of a tree, direct growth, influence flowering or fruiting, or maintain plant health and appearance. Pruning is important for a variety of reasons. Laura Jull, UW-Madison Horticulture, UW-Extension Three step method of pruning larger limbs

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