Question

To properly prune a large limb on a tree, where is the first cut made?

a) on the top of the limb about 6 inches out
b) flush with the trunk
c) on the bottom of the limb about 6 inches out

Answer 1

To properly prune a large limb on a tree, the first cut should be made on the bottom of the limb, about 6 inches out from the trunk, to prevent bark tearing.

Step-by-step explanation:

To properly prune a large limb on a tree, the first cut should be made on the bottom of the limb about 6 inches out from the trunk. This initial undercut prevents the bark from tearing down the side of the tree when the weight of the limb causes it to break off. After the initial cut is made, a second cut is made from the top, further out on the limb, to meet the first cut and allow the bulk of the limb to fall away cleanly. The final cut is then made close to the trunk, just outside the branch collar, which promotes proper healing.