How to Prune a Tree Limb

Where to cut the Branch

It is essential when cutting a branch not to make the cut flush to the trunk. This damages the trunk tissue. Instead cut just past the little swollen connection as shown.

Removing a Large Branch

When cutting a larger branch, it's important to make a three-part cut so when the branch falls from the tree that it doesn't tear the bark when it drops. First, make a shallow undercut close to the trunk. Second, cut the branch off by sawing down past the undercut. Third, make the final cut just past the swollen branch connection on the main trunk.

© All articles are copyrighted by WATERWISE Gardening, LLC.

Republishing an entire WATERWISE Gardening blog post or article is prohibited without written permission. Please feel free to share a short excerpt with a link back to the article on social media websites, such as Facebook