FLOWERS WORLD

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