With the American National Standard for pruning, ANSI A300, specifications can be written in a virtual infinite number of combinations The following information is designed to help you understand exactly what will be accomplished in a pruning operation.
Branch Size - A minimum or maximum diameter size of branches to be removed should be specified in all pruning operations. This established how much pruning it to be done.
Pruning Objectives • Hazard Reduction Pruning (HRP) - Is recommended when the primary objective is to reduce the danger to a specific target caused by visibly defined hazards in a tree. For example, HRP may be the primary objective if a tree has many dead limbs over a park bench.
• Maintenance Pruning (MP) - Is recommended when the primary objective is to maintain or improve tree health and structure, and includes hazard reduction pruning. An example here might be to perform an MP operation on a front yard tree.
Pruning Types Hazard reduction pruning and maintenance pruning should consist of one or more of the pruning types noted below:
• Crown cleaning - The selective removal of one or more of the following items: dead, dying or diseased branches, weak branches and watersprouts
• Crown thinning - The selective removal of branches to increase light penetration, air movement and to reduce weight
• Crown raising - The removal of the lower branches to provide clearance
• Crown reduction or shaping — Decrease the height and/or spread of a tree. Consideration should be given to the ability of the species to sustain this type of pruning
• Vista pruning - The selective thinning of framework limbs or specific areas of the crown to allow a view of an object from predetermined spot
• Crown restoration - Should improve the structure, form and appearance of trees which have been severely headed, vandalized or storm damaged.
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