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1. Gather the Right Tools
Sharp pruning shears for small branches
Loppers for medium-sized branches
Pruning saw for thick branches
Disinfectant to clean tools before and after use
Pruning sealant to protect cuts from oak wilt
2. Inspect the Tree
Identify dead, diseased, or damaged branches that need removal.
Look for crossing branches that rub against each other, as well as low-hanging limbs that interfere with walkways or structures.
3. Make the Right Cuts
Cut at the branch collar: Always prune branches just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk). This promotes faster healing.
Use the three-cut method for large branches:
Make a small cut underneath the branch about 30 cm from the trunk.
Make a second cut from the top, a few centimeters further out, to remove the branch.
Make the final cut just outside the branch collar to remove the remaining stub.
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