Flower care

Large Trees Proper pruning also helps to prevent injury and damage to life and property. This usually involves the removal of large branches or limbs from trees. Where tree limbs are near power lines, call the power company and ask them to remove them. Do not try to remove tree limbs from power lines yourself. Low-hanging branches may cause injury to individuals mowing the lawn or walking on the street. Also, branches sometimes rub against the house and roof. To remove the branches that are over 1" in diameter, use the double cut method. If the double cut method is not used, the branch will tear and splinter the trunk. This removes a large portion of the bark, causing a large wound which calluses with difficulty and may further result in permanent damage to the tree. (See Fig. 11.) To double cut, first cut halfway on the underside of the limb (about one foot from the tree trunk). Then (several inches further out) make a second cut through on the upper part of the limb (See Fig. 12). When the branch is removed, there is no splintering of the main tree trunk. Then remove the stub by conventional methods, taking care not to cut into the collar. (See “General Pruning Procedures”). Beware of rejuvenation techniques sometimes used on large old trees. Homeowners are sometimes “conned” into having the tops of old trees completely cut back, leaving only the stubs. These stubs eventually decay. Also, since the tree is in such a weakened condition, it may die prematurely. If you have large limbs that need to be removed, secure the professional services of an arborist. An arborist can drop work a tree, that is, lower