Retired certified master arborist Michael Murphy visited us recently and shared information about the new research-based practice called the natural pruning system. This method removes only twenty percent of the internal canopy shoots and suckers. Eighty percent of the pruning should be at the ends of limbs with the effect of lowering the canopy and making the trees more compact over all. T
he University of Florida used portable wind tunnels and their experiments showed that this practice will dramatically reduce the twisting and bending of trees when experiencing the expected stronger than ever winds from storms and hurricanes due to climate change. Rather than risk losing your shade trees and perhaps having them fall on your house, you can find a certified arborist, search “trees and good,” arrange for an inspection, and perhaps take preventative pruning action now.
