Tree pruning involves the careful removal of selected branches for a specific purpose. This may be to reduce the hazard potential of the tree, improve the health of the tree, or to improve the aesthetics of the tree within its setting.
Ideally, a tree should be pruned as little as possible. However, a correctly pruned tree can still retain its natural form and aesthetic value. A skilled arborist will be able to significantly reduce the height of the tree, or the density of the tree canopy, and leave the tree looking as though it has been barely touched, even though a substantive amount of wood and foliage may have been removed. Branches will be removed close to, but not at the trunk. Specific types of cuts, and angles of cut will be used that promote wound healing, and reduce epicormic growth. Where a large branch must be removed for reasons of hazard or disease, consideration is given as to how this may be achieved while minimising the impact on the overall aesthetic of the tree. In the event that a large number of branches will need to be removed to remove the hazard, it may be more appropriate to remove the tree completely, and replant appropriately.