PRUNING — WHY, WHEN AND HOW1

Pruning is an integral part of the maintenance of any landscape site. Correct pruning helps maintain vigorous plants and can aid the supply of additional energy for development of flowers, fruit and limbs. Pruning is most generally conducted to control the size of plants and to bring overgrown plants back into bounds. Extreme or radical pruning to control size can be eliminated by correct plant selection. Choose plants that "fit" the landscape purpose. Don't try to make a large growing plant fill the need by extensive annual pruning. Pruning aids the survival chances of newly planted trees and shrubs by compensating for reduced root systems. The tops of bare-root plants should be pruned back 1/3 to 1/2. Balledand-burlapped and container-grown material require less severe thinning but still may require some reduction of the leaf surface. Pruning aids in maintaining the health and appearance of the plant. Minor insect and disease infestations can often be controlled by removing the affected portions. Damaged and dead wood should also be removed. Future flower and fruit development can often be stimulated by correct pruning. Removal of shrivelled and faded flowers and fruit allows more available carbohydrates for development of next season's buds. Personal and property damage can be reduced or avoided by removal of low hanging and dangerous limbs. Other maintenance procedures, such as mowing or spraying can also be speeded or aided by removing low limbs. When