Crown reduction is a popular pruning method mainly applied on large hardwood trees with tightly spaced branched branches. It involves the selective elimination of branches and stems to improve air circulation and light penetration through the central crown of the tree. The main aim of crown reduction pruning is to provide more space for air to pass and facilitate photosynthesis. However, the method can also be used to simply shorten the branch to improve the overall appearance of the tree.
The most popular approach to crown reduction pruning is to remove all or most of the topmost growth on the tree. This results in a smaller opening at the top of the trunk and a shorter branch with less leaf surface area. Sometimes this topping of the stem occurs because the tree has just been topped and it will continue to grow new shoots in this area. These sprouts are called spurs and eventually become part of the foliage of the tree.
In many cases, removing branches and top growth produces desirable outcomes. However, some trees do not always respond well to crown reduction pruning techniques. For example, a species such as the White Spruce, which usually grows in North America and Europe, has large white bark branches that usually cause problems when pruned. Removing these branches usually results in an increased number of black spruce needles or pinpricks on the tree trunk.
There are other methods to achieve crown reduction pruning success that differ from removing entire trees. One example of such method is the use of wire pinching to remove small branches and twigs. This method can be useful if you are trying to restore an older tree that is heavily pruned, since the older trees have much thinner branches. However, if you are pruning a new tree in preparation for tree care or pruning for landscape, it is best to leave the visible portion of the tree intact.
Another pruning method for crown reduction pruning is by using blunt pruning shears. This is usually the recommended approach for small trees, although there are exceptions. Branches of trees that are very old, often used to produce railroad ties, may not be appropriate for crown reduction pruning techniques. Also, it is not a good idea to use blunt shears on exotic trees or giant conifers because these large branches will deflect the pruning shears blades. If you plan to prune giant conifers or trees with thick, green shoots, you may consider using a fork or prune bar with a long handle. This will help to keep the cutting blade clear of the green shoots.
When you prune your crown, you must be careful to choose only a number of thinner branches and twigs so that they do not break off during the crown reduction process. Twigs and branches that break off should be removed immediately to allow for proper air movement in the crown. Thinning branches and thinning roots will reduce air movement, which will decrease the time it takes for your crown to grow back.