Elm example 3

Before pruning

The center of the canopy is growing off to the left and one branch in the top of the tree has grown way outside the edge of the canopy. Caliper growth is good and the trunk has good taper to the soil line. Low branches can be reducing in length, and some large ones can be removed.

After pruning

Low branches were shortened and several were removed. All were topped at just below the bottom of the permanent nursery canopy. Heading and reduction cuts were made in the canopy to encourage development of a dominant leader. None is apparent at the top of the tree; one will have to be identified the next time trees are pruned.