NTP, NATURAL TARGET PRUNING

We will first define some terms. The branch collar [3] is the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. This is a composite structure made of branch and truck tissue.  Problems will start for the tree should this become injured. The raised area [4] is the branch bark ridge and we should not injure it as well. NTP is the term used to describe when we prune where MOTHER NATURE does. Always use caution and have professionals do the removal of large branches. NEVER let a person prune a tree that they are saving with climbing spikes on because this will lead to many other problems for the tree along with the tree owner (I have no problem using spikes on dead trees and dead branches for removals.). When removing a branch always undercut [A] first followed by a cut from above [B]. This prevents the ripping of the bark on and beyond the branch collar. The final cut [C] needs to be as close to the collar as possible without injuring the collar and without leaving a stub. Often people want to know if we are going to make a mistake is it better to leave it long or cut it short? The proper answer is "do not set out to make a mistake"! If you do not know where the target is, then shoot where you think it is. If you hit the target, then a round doughnut will form the following growing season (see Fact#95). If not, you need to make adjustments. Never place your saw behind the branch bark ridge. Pruning parts off branches works the same way, always make pruning cuts at nodes (shrubs) or other lateral branches (trees).

Diagrams from The Desk of John A. KESLICK Jr.

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John A. Keslick Jr.
Tree Biologist
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Modern Arboriculture