Elm example 4

Before pruning

Previous pruning set a good structure in this elm. Now some adjustment is needed since there are a few branches crowding and growing up into the top of the canopy. The major branch on the right side of the canopy is about the same diameter as the leader. Good trunk taper is visible - look for the thick trunk at the soil line. Temporary branches can be shortened.

After pruning

Look carefully at the before and after photos and you can see which branches were removed or shortened. A reduction cut was made to shorten the major branch on the right side of the canopy. Heading cuts were used to shorten the major left branch slightly. Temporary low branches were shortened and removed. Go out to your trees now and practice this.