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Why and how trees and people benefit from pruning
There are several consequences of not conducting a regular pruning program. These include: increased risk of failure, development of low limbs, formation of co-dominant stems, defects such as included bark and dead branches, and obstructed views. When properly executed, benefits can occur include reducing risk of branch and whole-tree failure, better clearance for vehicles and pedestrians, and improved appearance.
When trees fail by breaking branches or falling over, property can be damaged. Occassionally, people can be injured by falling tree parts, although people are more likely to be struck by lightning (80-100 people die from strikes annually in the US) than killed by a falling tree (about 30 fatalities annually). Pruning young and medium-sized trees can help minimize this problem by encouraging trees to grow with strong branch structure. Risk on mature trees can be managed with appropriate pruning on trees close to potential targets such as buildings, pedestrian walks, and picnic areas. Recent research clearly shows that appropriate pruning can reduce likelihood of trees failing in wind. Click through the illustrations below to review some of the problems that result from lack of tree care.
Why trees and people benefit from pruning
magnolia broke |
house burned |
mahogany split |
car destroyed |
