Example 3

Before pruning

Low branches are quite aggressive resulting in root growth, good taper, and good caliper growth. The top of the canopy has several stems close to and crossing over each other, and branches are crowded together. Fix this now so future growth occurs on a strong structure instead of attempting to correct this later.

After pruning

After removing and shortening some low branches and removing competing branches in the canopy, this tree is off to a great start. The trunk and branch structure is now set so that subsequent growth will occur on a strong structure. It will be more difficult to correct these defects if you do not perform this structural pruning now. In warm climates, this crucial pruning often occurs in the second growing season.