KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — Moving into a new house often comes with an intimidating challenge: mature trees thick with branches that need serious pruning.
“Knowledge is everything when it comes to pruning mature trees. But proper, easy-to-understand instructions can be hard to find.”
“Knowledge is everything when it comes to pruning mature trees,” said Nicole Sanchez, horticulturist with the Oregon State University Extension Service. “But proper, easy-to-understand instructions can be hard to find.”
To help fill the gap, Sanchez developed Pruning With the Pros, a series of 11 short videos covering every aspect of pruning mature trees. The series begins with necessary tools and ends with advice on when to hire a professional. Choosing the right arborist matters, Sanchez noted, because poor pruning can leave trees in worse condition than before.
In the videos, Tom Ford, a certified arborist who volunteered his time, demonstrates pruning techniques. He is assisted by John Bellom, urban forester for the city of Klamath Falls. Sanchez approached Bellom about collaborating on the project since they both serve on the board of the volunteer Klamath Tree League.
With a small grant to cover part of the cost of a videographer, the team produced the series, which walks viewers through real-life pruning examples.
“I realized there is a lot of information about pruning young trees, but much less about the problems you might inherit when you buy a house or one is passed down,” Sanchez said. “The idea came when I found out the nonprofit Klamath Falls Arboretum was going to host pruning demonstrations. It’s helpful to see the process, to walk through it with pros.”
Practical guidance
The videos range from a 50-second introduction to a 10-minute episode on pruning a Thundercloud plum. Most are four to five minutes long — clear, concise and easy to follow.
Pruning is essential to maintain a tree’s value. If a tree isn’t pruned properly early on, it will require more extensive work later. Establishing a strong structure keeps trees healthy and better able to withstand wind or ice storms. With overgrown trees, pruning may take longer since no more than one-third of the branches should be removed at a time.
Still, many homeowners hesitate to prune. “People are intimidated by the idea,” Sanchez said. “They don’t want to make mistakes that could cost the tree in the long run. That’s when it’s time to call an arborist.”
Seeing through the eyes of the pros
“I hope we helped give people the chance to see what professionals are thinking about — the tools they use and the techniques they apply,” Bellom said. “We wanted to provide homeowners with clear advice about proper pruning practices, including when to prune and when not to prune.”
For those who want a more in-depth resource, Sanchez recommends Pruning Basics for Trees and Shrubs by Amy Jo Detweiler, Extension horticulturist in Central Oregon.
Previously titled Give overgrown trees a makeover with new OSU pruning video series
