How to care for and prune trees, step by step

When we see the appearance of a tree that conveys health and natural beauty, we sometimes wonder what care was provided to it to reach that state. Sometimes we receive advice so that it absorbs nutrients better, so that it even has more shine or looks striking. But, according to Oregon State University, USA, you only need to know a little about the biological structure of the tree and the proper principles about pruning. Therefore, it shares some tips to know how to do it without hurt or kill the tree; Although, if it happens, it is important to remember that trees grow by renewing themselves, so it is a matter of care and learning.

As much as it may seem otherwise, pruning is easy, the benefits of which will keep the tree healthy for decades (and even centuries). As living beings, each tree has a preference in the way it is treated, so there are certain priorities to take into consideration:

  • Keep the tree as healthy as possible by: removing dead or diseased leaves and branches; remove intersecting branches, as they can hurt or infect other parts of the plant; repair any damage it has.

  • Nourishes the cup to improve its appearance.

  • Rejuvenates the tree by removing old wood in such a way that new wood is formed.

  • It improves the aesthetics of the tree, and thus its value will also increase.

  • Reduce the size of the tree by eventually removing its foliage (but be careful in selection).

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    But then, how can you remove and remove those branches or leaves that vitally and aesthetically affect the plant? According to Sunset experts, there are four ways to prune: First, prick, with your thumb and index finger, the leaves of the tree to stimulate its hygienic development, shape it and remove any abnormalities; second, direct the branches of the tree by cutting them just behind the shoot and thus stimulate growth; third, thin the stem and crown of the tree on the branches to eliminate crossed or tangled branches, using hand pruners, garden shears or a pruning saw; finally, shear the structure without cutting the shoots and thus stimulate their development, through only cutting the small leaves (where the damage is less visible).

    Even Oregon State University advises that, to care for the plant, it is necessary to know it: walk around it, check if it does not present any abnormalities, and then consider the appearance you want it to obtain; and if it has some crossed or diseased branches, consider which cut is the one you need (puncturing, directing or shearing), without affecting the shape of the tree. Let us remember that the objective of pruning is to beautify and keep the plant healthy; since, like any living being, it is essential to take into account its biological needs.