Field Guide

Quick reference for arborists in the field

Remove dead, dying, diseased, crowded, weakly attached, and low-vigor branches.

Selective removal to reduce density, increase light and air. Remove no more than 25% of live crown.

Remove lower branches to provide clearance. Standard: 8 ft pedestrian, 14 ft vehicular.

Reduce height/spread by cutting back to laterals at least 1/3 diameter of the cut stem.

1) Undercut 12-18" from trunk, 2) Top cut slightly further out, 3) Final cut at branch collar.

Never cut into the branch collar — it contains wound closure tissue.

PROHIBITED — indiscriminate cutting to stubs. Causes decay, epicormic growth, structural failure.

PROHIBITED — removing all interior branches, leaving foliage only at ends.

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