Prune Your Tree Limbs & Branches Correctly with this Easy to Follow Tutorial

Trees are the most spectacular plants in the garden. And since they grow so slowly, it is imperative that we treat them with utmost respect. That means pruning their limbs and branches correctly. Because an improperly pruned limb can cause great damage to the trunk which will negatively affect the tree's health.

In this video I clearly demonstrate how to correctly prune large tree limbs and branches that are about 1.5" in diameter or greater. By using this three part method you will keep your tree's health in tact!

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[margaretchiodo-keller]

This video provided me with the correct information I needed to cut back a branch on my maple tree. Thanks Devin, for always helping us with our gardening questions.

[doctim]

I’ve been doing it wrong for years. Thanks for the new information.

[rebeccaperry]

Thank you for the update. I have been trimming incorrectly forever. Too close to the trunk. Now I have the correct information

[wyominghome]

The trees on my property are primarily cottonwoods, which are notorious for resprouting at the point of the pruning cut. Over time, these result in a mare's nest tangle of sharp branches and snags that is not only unsightly but can be dangerous. What will stop the resprouting in most cases is to not only eliminate the branch collar but to scoop in slightly as you cut (1/4-1/3 inch) with your chainsaw to destroy the buds around the branch base. You won't be able to see the buds, because they exist under the bark, but they are there.

Cottonwoods are also notorious for sprouting along a damaged root. I have found that if you catch these sprouts while still small (before they're 6 inches or so) you can grab them at the base, give them a twist and they pop right out. Keep doing that and the tree will eventually stop sprouting.

P.S. You should not have to saw back and forth with a chainsaw. Does your chain need sharpening?

[lisaanglim]

Generally when branches fall off it’s a jagged branch up the branch.

[ozzietadziu]

I've never seen anyone use a chain saw like that. What's with all that back-and-forth sawing action?

[wthomas]

Looks like your chain needs sharpening. That's not generally how chain saws work.

[SteveNoblin]

He would have been better of using a hack saw 😆