Cutting Large Branches Off Trees

The first two cuts remove the weight from the tree branch and the final cut is designed for the best callus growth.

Cutting large branches off trees.

Most tree branches that are cut back to the trunk or a main branch will require three cuts to prevent damage to the bark. When you cut tree branches you create wounds that can act as open doors for disease. If done properly pruning does not hurt the tree it s actually quite beneficial. Once a branch is cut off from the tree the tree forms callus tissue that covers the wound.

Cut underneath first then the top to tidy it all up. You can do it yourself without a ladder a lift or a professional. Cutting off large limbs could end up killing the tree. The last small cut should be about 2 feet from the trunk and the final cut should be 1 to 2 inches.

To prevent this trees naturally seal off wounds after pruning though they don t actually heal them. If it is a large branch cut it back in sections to avoid the risk of it tearing back into the trunk. If tree branches are not cut correctly this can be hazardous to its healing process thus resulting in the tree becoming weak and potentially no longer growing. This callus tissue acts as a scar that keeps disease and decay out of the tree.

Does pruning hurt trees. But if you ve never done it before it s best to start small and work your way into it. The wound will callous over. You don t want to go overboard and cut off too many branches.