Descriptions matter!
For example, if we say, "Remove dying
branches," this allows the entire removal
of any branch with partial dieback. If
we say, "Remove diseased branches,"
this means any diseased branch with
anthracnose or powdery mildew can
be removed. Using the broad term
crown cleaning—i.e, removing dead,
dying, diseased, weak, or crossing
branches—can result in over-pruning.
Please be specific, as in "Remove dead
branches only of x diameter range," or
"Remove damaged crossing branch, or
reduce end weights to separate crossing
branches," or "Retain interior foliage."
Photo shows target pruning to clear the home and reduce the likelihood of branches failing (and falling)
on the home and property. Pruning cuts need to be planned by the arborist to achieve the final tree
shape; there should be minimal if any pruning on the interior branches. Photo by Gordon Mann
Types of Branches to be Removed – Dead, living, affected
by specific diseases, damaged, long or leveraged.
Pruning Cut Types – Branch Removal cuts, Reduction cuts,
or Heading Cuts. (Only three ways to remove a branch!)
Pruning Amount – Percent of foliage to be removed or number
of branches to be removed. The Clause 5.4.3 states, "Pruning
specifications should remove no more living material that what
is necessary to achieve specified objectives." The previous 25%
rule allowed too much foliage to be removed. Consider 8% to
15% total foliage removal. End weight reduction of 15% or even
20% on branches will be less than 15% total foliage removal.
Location in the Crown – Most interior branches
should be retained. Most work should be in
the outer quarter or third of the crown.
Size Range of Parts to Remove – Show the branch
diameter size of the branches to be pruned.
ucfsociety.org 33
