“Pruning is one of the best things an arborist can do for a tree but one of the worst things we can do to a tree.” Alex Shigo

Pruning is, indeed, a double edged sword, either helping or hurting – depending on when, where, how and why it is applied. There are 7 main objectives for pruning:

1.) Safety - reduce the risk of failure
2.) Provide clearance
3.) Reduce shade and wind resistance
4.) Maintain health
5.) Influence flower or fruit production
6.) Improve a view
7.) Improve aesthetics

Proper pruning is essential in developing a tree with a strong structure and desirable form. Trees that receive the appropriate pruning measures while they are young will require little corrective pruning when they mature. Most often, trees are pruned as a preventative or as a corrective measure to remove dead branches, crowded or rubbing limbs, eliminate hazards, and increase light and air penetration. Since each cut to a tree has the potential to change the growth, it's important to remember that no branch should be removed without good reason. Knowing the interactions among each of the above objectives is only one area of expertise about which Busy Bee Services, Ltd. advises its clients.