Discussion: Does this tree need to be pruned?

treeprunetnThis quercas alba (white oak, click on for larger view) has been pruned over the years by the utility company. It does not appear to have one dominant leader, and the homeowner is wondering if the many crowded branches growing vertically are weak attachments. The homeowner also wonders if by thinning the crown in particular, the verticle branches growing upward, would reduce wind drag and make the tree less likely to fail. What do you think?

2 Comments

  1. Michael Huffman
    Posted November 19, 2009 at 10:15 pm | Permalink

    The tree appears to have many codominant leaders that could be removed. Reduction pruning would be good. I don’t believe the canopy can be cleaned up all at once, but could be over a couple of growing seasons. Some of the lowest branches could be removed.. Where is this tree located?

    Mike Huffman

    Certified arborist #SO-5155-A
    Georgia Registered Forester #2740

  2. Neil
    Posted November 20, 2009 at 1:19 pm | Permalink

    The tree is located near downtown Decatur. It is in a residential yard about 20 feet off the street.

Post a Comment

Your email is never published nor shared. Required fields are marked *

*
*