Commercial Pruning Tips (5 Essential Arborist Techniques)

As the leaves begin their fiery descent, painting the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, there’s a subtle shift in the air. It’s not just the chill that signals the changing season, but the quiet understanding among arborists that pruning season is upon us. And while some might see it as just another task on the to-do list, I see it as a chance to sculpt, nurture, and ensure the long-term health of our arboreal companions.

Commercial Pruning Tips: 5 Essential Arborist Techniques

For years, I’ve been immersed in the world of tree care, from the towering pines of the Pacific Northwest to the sturdy oaks of the East Coast. Over that time, I’ve seen pruning done well, and, let’s just say, not so well. This article isn’t just about the what of commercial pruning; it’s about the why and the how. I’m going to share five essential arborist techniques that I’ve found invaluable in my own practice, techniques that can elevate your pruning from simple trimming to a true art form.

Understanding the Intent: Beyond Just Cutting Branches

Before we dive into the specific techniques, it’s crucial to understand the intent behind commercial pruning. It’s not just about aesthetics, although that’s certainly a factor. Commercial pruning aims to achieve a variety of goals, including:

Safety: Removing dead, diseased, or hazardous branches that could pose a risk to people or property.
Health: Improving air circulation and sunlight penetration to promote overall tree health and vigor.
Structure: Shaping the tree to develop a strong, balanced framework that can withstand wind and other environmental stresses.
Aesthetics: Enhancing the tree’s natural beauty and complementing the surrounding landscape.
Production: (In orchards and fruit trees) Maximizing fruit yield and quality.

Technique 1: Mastering the Art of Crown Cleaning

Crown cleaning is often the first line of defense in maintaining a healthy tree. It involves the selective removal of dead, dying, diseased, and broken branches from the tree’s crown.

Why it’s essential: Deadwood not only detracts from the tree’s appearance but also provides a breeding ground for pests and diseases. Broken branches can create entry points for decay organisms.
How to do it right:
- Inspect thoroughly: Start by carefully inspecting the entire crown, from the trunk to the tips of the branches. Use binoculars if necessary to get a better view.
- Prioritize removals: Focus on removing the most hazardous or problematic branches first.
- Make proper cuts: Cut branches back to the branch collar, the swollen area at the base of the branch where it joins the trunk. Avoid flush cuts, which can damage the trunk and hinder wound closure.
- Use the right tools: A sharp handsaw or pole saw is ideal for smaller branches. For larger branches, a chainsaw may be necessary, but use it with caution and proper safety gear.
- Sanitize your tools: Between cuts, disinfect your tools with a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to prevent the spread of disease.

My Experience: I once worked on a massive oak tree that was riddled with deadwood. The homeowner was concerned about the tree’s health and safety, and frankly, so was I. After a full day of crown cleaning, the difference was remarkable. The tree looked healthier, more vibrant, and far less likely to drop a limb during the next storm. The homeowner was ecstatic, and I felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that I had helped to preserve this magnificent tree.

Data Point: Studies have shown that crown cleaning can reduce the risk of branch failure by up to 50%. A study by the International Society of Arboriculture found that trees that receive regular crown cleaning are significantly less likely to develop decay and disease.

Technique 2: Crown Thinning: Letting the Light Shine In

Crown thinning involves selectively removing branches to increase light penetration and air circulation within the crown. It’s like giving the tree a chance to breathe.

Why it’s essential: Improved light and air circulation can reduce the risk of fungal diseases and promote healthy growth. It also allows sunlight to reach lower branches, encouraging them to thrive.
How to do it right:
- Focus on interior branches: Remove branches that are crossing, rubbing, or growing inward towards the center of the tree.
- Maintain a balanced appearance: Avoid removing too many branches from one area of the crown, which can create an unbalanced or unnatural look.
- Follow the one-third rule: As a general guideline, don’t remove more than one-third of the tree’s crown in a single pruning session.
- Consider the tree’s species: Different tree species have different growth habits and pruning needs. Research the specific requirements of the trees you’re working on.
- Step back and assess: After each cut, step back and assess the overall shape and balance of the tree. Make adjustments as needed.

Wood Species Insight: When thinning the crown of fruit trees, understanding the fruiting habits of the species is crucial. For example, apple trees bear fruit on spurs that are several years old, so avoid removing too many of these spurs. Peach trees, on the other hand, bear fruit on one-year-old wood, so pruning should focus on encouraging new growth.

Personal Story: I once thinned the crown of a neglected apple tree in an old orchard. The tree was so dense that very little sunlight was reaching the interior branches, and the fruit yield was poor. After thinning the crown, the tree responded beautifully. The following year, it produced a bumper crop of delicious apples. It was a testament to the power of proper pruning.

Technique 3: Crown Raising: Creating Clearance and Enhancing Visibility

Crown raising involves removing lower branches to increase clearance under the tree’s crown. This is especially important in urban areas where trees may overhang sidewalks, roads, or buildings.

Why it’s essential: Crown raising improves visibility for pedestrians and drivers, reduces the risk of damage to property, and allows for easier access under the tree.
How to do it right:
- Consider the desired clearance: Determine the appropriate clearance height based on the specific location and needs. For example, trees overhanging roads typically require a higher clearance than trees overhanging sidewalks.
- Remove branches gradually: Avoid removing too many lower branches at once, which can stress the tree and create an unnatural appearance.
- Maintain a natural shape: Prune branches back to the trunk or to a lateral branch that is at least one-third the diameter of the branch being removed.
- Be mindful of included bark: Avoid leaving stubs or flush cuts, which can hinder wound closure and create entry points for decay.
- Prioritize safety: Use proper safety equipment, including a hard hat, safety glasses, and gloves. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid working near power lines.

Case Study: I worked on a project where a row of mature maple trees was overhanging a busy city street. The trees were obstructing visibility for drivers and posing a safety hazard. We carefully raised the crowns of the trees, removing lower branches to provide adequate clearance. The result was a safer, more attractive streetscape. We used bucket trucks to ensure safety and efficiency.

Technique 4: Crown Reduction: Managing Size and Preventing Hazards

Crown reduction involves reducing the overall size of the tree’s crown. This is often done to manage the tree’s size, improve its structure, or reduce the risk of branch failure.

Why it’s essential: Crown reduction can be a valuable tool for managing large trees in confined spaces. It can also help to prevent hazardous branches from breaking and falling.
How to do it right:
- Reduce to a lateral branch: Prune branches back to a lateral branch that is at least one-third the diameter of the branch being removed. This helps to maintain the tree’s natural shape and encourages healthy growth.
- Avoid topping: Topping, the indiscriminate removal of branches at the top of the tree, is a harmful practice that can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to disease.
- Maintain a balanced appearance: Avoid removing too much foliage from one area of the crown, which can create an unbalanced or unnatural look.
- Consider the tree’s species: Different tree species respond differently to crown reduction. Research the specific requirements of the trees you’re working on.
- Use proper pruning techniques: Make clean, angled cuts that promote rapid wound closure.

Unique Insight: When reducing the crown of a tree, consider the “target pruning” concept. Identify specific areas where you want to reduce the crown and focus your pruning efforts on those areas. This will help you to achieve the desired result while minimizing the overall impact on the tree.

Technique 5: Root Pruning: A Hidden Art

While most pruning focuses on the above-ground parts of the tree, root pruning can be a valuable technique for managing root growth and preventing damage to underground utilities or structures.

Why it’s essential: Root pruning can prevent roots from encroaching on underground pipes, foundations, or other structures. It can also be used to stimulate root growth in young trees that are being transplanted.
How to do it right:
- Identify problem roots: Carefully excavate around the tree to identify roots that are causing problems.
- Make clean cuts: Use a sharp saw or pruning shears to make clean cuts, avoiding tearing or crushing the roots.
- Limit the amount of root removal: As a general guideline, don’t remove more than 20% of the tree’s root system in a single pruning session.
- Water and fertilize: After root pruning, water and fertilize the tree to help it recover.
- Consider root barriers: Install root barriers to prevent roots from growing back into the problem area.

Safety Standards: Always call 811 before you dig to locate underground utilities. This will help you to avoid damaging buried pipes or cables, which could have serious consequences.

The Importance of Tool Selection

No arborist is complete without the right tools. Here’s a brief rundown of some essentials:

Chainsaws: Indispensable for larger branches, but always prioritize safety. Consider models with chain brakes and anti-vibration features.
Hand Saws: For precise cuts on smaller branches. I prefer Japanese pull saws for their clean cuts and efficiency.
Pole Saws: Essential for reaching high branches without a ladder.
Pruning Shears: For small twigs and branches. Bypass pruners are generally better than anvil pruners.
Loppers: For branches too thick for pruning shears.
Climbing Gear: For accessing trees safely. This includes a harness, ropes, and carabiners.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This includes a hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.

Tool Maintenance: Keeping Your Tools in Top Shape

Just as a chef relies on sharp knives, an arborist relies on well-maintained tools. Regular sharpening, cleaning, and lubrication are essential for ensuring that your tools perform optimally and safely.

Sharpening: Keep your blades sharp to make clean cuts and reduce the risk of kickback.
Cleaning: Remove sap and debris from your tools after each use to prevent rust and corrosion.
Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear.
Storage: Store your tools in a dry place to protect them from the elements.

Wood Processing After Pruning: Don’t Let the Waste Go to Waste

Pruning generates a significant amount of wood, and it’s important to have a plan for how to process it. Here are a few options:

Chipping: Chipping the wood is a great way to create mulch for gardens and landscaping.
Firewood: Larger branches can be cut into firewood for heating homes.
Milling: Some wood species can be milled into lumber for building projects.
Composting: Smaller branches and leaves can be composted to create nutrient-rich soil.

The Arborist’s Ethos: A Commitment to Tree Care

Being an arborist is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to the health and well-being of trees. It’s about understanding their needs, respecting their natural growth habits, and using our skills to help them thrive.

Continuous Learning: The field of arboriculture is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices.
Ethical Practices: Always prioritize the health and safety of the tree over short-term gains.
Environmental Stewardship: Be mindful of the environmental impact of your work and strive to minimize your footprint.

Cost-Effectiveness in Commercial Pruning

Let’s talk brass tacks. Commercial pruning isn’t just about tree health; it’s about running a profitable business. How do you ensure cost-effectiveness without compromising quality?

Efficient Labor Management: Optimize crew sizes and task assignments. Time is money, and wasted time is wasted profit. Track job times to identify inefficiencies.
Equipment Efficiency: Invest in reliable, fuel-efficient equipment. A well-maintained chainsaw is more than just a safety asset; it’s a money-saver.
Waste Reduction: As mentioned earlier, turning pruning waste into mulch or firewood can offset disposal costs and even generate revenue.
Client Communication: Clear communication upfront about the scope of work and expected outcomes can prevent costly misunderstandings and change orders.

Data Point: A study by the Tree Care Industry Association found that companies that invest in employee training and safety programs have significantly lower accident rates and workers’ compensation costs.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Arboriculture

The field of arboriculture is constantly evolving, driven by new technologies, changing environmental conditions, and a growing awareness of the importance of trees.

Drone Technology: Drones are increasingly being used for tree inspections, allowing arborists to assess tree health and identify potential problems from a safe distance.
Data Analytics: Data analytics can be used to track tree growth, monitor tree health, and predict the risk of branch failure.
Climate Change Adaptation: Arborists are playing an increasingly important role in helping trees adapt to the challenges of climate change, such as drought, heat waves, and invasive pests.

The Art of Arboriculture: A Lifelong Journey

Arboriculture is more than just a profession; it’s a passion. It’s about connecting with nature, using our skills to improve the environment, and leaving a legacy of healthy, beautiful trees for future generations. It’s a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and discovery. And I, for one, am thrilled to be a part of it.

Actionable Takeaways for Your Own Projects

Start with a Plan: Before you even pick up a saw, have a clear plan for what you want to achieve with your pruning.
Prioritize Safety: Always wear appropriate PPE and follow safe work practices.
Learn from the Pros: Attend workshops, read books, and seek out mentorship from experienced arborists.
Practice Makes Perfect: The more you prune, the better you’ll become.
Respect the Trees: Remember that trees are living organisms that deserve our care and respect.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

As the pruning season unfolds, I encourage you to embrace these techniques, not just as tasks, but as opportunities to connect with nature and contribute to the health and beauty of our world. Whether you’re a seasoned arborist or a budding enthusiast, remember that every cut you make has the potential to shape the future of a tree. So, let’s prune with purpose, with knowledge, and with a deep respect for the arboreal wonders that surround us.