REMOVING LARGE BRANCHES

Ian

When I try to remove tree branches I damage the trunks. How can this be avoided? R.G.. By e-mail

Photo: Lopping branches can help a tree develop but don't get too carried away!

Reply

If tree branches are cut off close to the trunk, the weight of the branch is likely to tear away from the main plant, damaging the bark, leaving a nasty scar and creating a larger area that may increase the chance of letting disease enter the wound.

There is a better, safer way to remove unwanted branches:

Step 1. Remove any small branches from the branch you are about to lop off. Doing this first will make the job a lot easier and safer, it will also enable you see what you are doing.

Step 2. About a foot (60cm) from the trunk, undercut the branch. Making an upward cut about half to two-thirds through the branch.

Step 3. Make a downward cut, 3-4ins (4-10cm) further along the branch than your first upward cut.

Step 4. As you continue the downward cut, you'll find that the weight of the branch will collapse the bottom cut, the branch will then tear along it's length until it meets the lower cut that you made earlier. Carry on the downward cut until the branch comes away completely.

Step 5. The short stump you are left with can now be removed, sawing as close to the trunk as possible.

There are two schools of thought about what to do with the open wound.

Traditionally, Arbrex was painted to stop disease entering the newly exposed plant tissue, however some experts now question whether this is really necessary and whether it traps moisture and disease (from cutting equipment) between the coating and the cut. Preferring to let the tree recover on it's own.

Horticultural