STRUCTURAL PRUNING :

Removal of duplicating branches and branches that have narrow angles of attachment (included bark - see Figure B). Structural pruning methods are used when pruning young trees or a tree that has not been pruned for many years. A strong union (see Figure A) is more structurally sound.

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CROWN REDUCTION :

If the height of the tree must be reduced, all cuts should be made to strong laterals or to the parent limbs. DO NOT ALL YOUR TREES TO BE TOPPED (more information on the hazards of topping)

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CROWN RESTORATION : Arrows indicate previous topping cuts. During the past 3 years, we’ve been selectively pruning to restore the natural appearance of the tree's crown.
(click photo for close-up)

CROWN RESTORATION:

Restoring of the crown of a tree that has been damaged by previous improper pruning (topping) to a more natural occurring shape. Crown restoration for damaged trees is accomplished over several growth cycles of the tree (usually with a few years).

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VISTA PRUNING:

Pruning for restoring a view through the canopy of a tree from windows of a house or from patios or decks.

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VISTA PRUNING: Twenty five years ago, the owners of this Monterey Pine requested the removal of this tree because it blocked their beautiful view of the bay. As an alternative, San Francisco Arborist Ted Kipping suggested that the tree could be selectively pruned to remove limbs that obstructed the view. The end result was that the tree became part of the view itself. The appearance is similar to a bonsai. This technique is sometimes called “cloud pruning”.
(click photo for enlargement)

CROWN SHAPING:

Pruning to enhance the visual appearance of the tree.

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CROWN SHAPING - over several seasons, a desirable
bonsai effect is achieved.

(click photo for enlargement)

CROWN THINNING:

Removal of unwanted branches to reduce weight, and allow light and air penetration through the canopy.

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Photo Example

CROWN RAISING:

Removal of lower limbs of trees in order to provide clearance for buildings, vehicles and pedestrians. Primarily applies to trees in urban and landscape settings.

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POLLARDING:

A technique to create a particular appearance of the tree by removing yearly growth back to the nodes annually. This must be started when the tree is young. This should NOT be mistaken for topping.

Note: not all tree species can tolerate pollarding.

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