Pruning is considered as a preventive maintenance. Many problems may be prevented by pruning correctly during formative years for a tree or shrub.
Prune to promote plant health
- Remove dead or dying branches injured by disease, severe insect infestation, animals, storms, or other adverse mechanical damage.
- Remove branches that rub together.
- Remove branch stubs
Prune to maintain plants; intended purposes in a landscape, such as:
- Encouraging flower and fruit development
- Maintaining a dense hedge
- Maintaining a desired plant form or special garden forms