Tree Pruning

Pruning objectives should be established prior to beginning any pruning operation.  A300 provides two basic objectives.

Hazard Reduction Pruning

Hazard reduction pruning (HAP) is recommended when the primary objective is to reduce the danger to a specific target caused by visibly defined hazards in a tree. For example, HAP may be the primary objective if a tree had many dead limbs over a park bench.

Maintenance Pruning

Maintenance pruning (MP) is recommended when the primary objective is to maintain or improve tree health and structure, and includes hazard reduction pruning. An example here might be to perform a MP operation on a front yard tree.

• Crown cleaning shall consist of the selective removal of one or more of the following items: dead, dying, or diseased branches, weak branches and watersprouts.
• Crown thinning shall consist of the selective removal of branches to increase light penetration, air movement, and reduce weight.
• Crown raising shall consist of the removal of the lower branches of a tree to provide clearance.
• Crown Reduction or Crown Shaping.  To decreases the height and/or spread of a tree. Consideration should be given to the ability of a species to sustain this type of pruning.
• Vista Pruning is selective thinning of framework limbs or specific areas of the crown to allow a view of an object from a predetermined point.
• Crown Restoration pruning should improve the structure, form and appearance of trees which have been severely headed, vandalized, or storm damaged.

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