Get the course
Free lessonDomain 5: Pruning · lesson 20 of 48

Types of pruning cut and how to sequence them

Branch removal, reduction, heading and shearing cuts, when each is appropriate, and how to sequence cuts to avoid tearing bark.

Key points

Branch removal cutRemoves a branch at its origin, just outside the collar.
Reduction cutShortens a stem to a lateral that can assume dominance, generally at least one-third its diameter.
Heading cutTo a bud, stub or small lateral; only for specific systems such as pollarding, espalier, young shaping.
ShearingMany small heading cuts; hedges and topiary.
SequencingThree-cut method for heavy branches; dead and hazardous parts first; plan so pieces fall clear; reassess often.

Summary

CutCut toUse
Branch removalOrigin, outside the collarRemoving whole branches
ReductionLateral ≥ 1/3 the stem diameterSize and clearance, natural form
HeadingBud, stub or small lateralPollarding, espalier, young shaping only
ShearingMany small headingsHedges, topiary

Quick check

A cut that shortens a stem back to a lateral large enough to assume dominance is a:
  1. Reduction cut
  2. Heading cut
  3. Branch removal cut
  4. Flush cut
Answer: A. Heading cuts go to buds, stubs or laterals too small to take over.
For a reduction cut, the remaining lateral should generally be at least:
  1. One-tenth the diameter
  2. One-third the diameter of the stem removed
  3. Twice the diameter
  4. Exactly the same diameter
Answer: B. Smaller laterals can't take over, and sprouts result.
In the three-cut method, what is the purpose of the first cut?
  1. To remove the branch collar
  2. To mark the final cut
  3. To leave a permanent stub
  4. To stop the bark tearing when the branch falls
Answer: D. The undercut stops a tear running down the trunk.

On the job

  • On your next reduction, check that each lateral is at least a third of the stem's diameter.
  • Use the three-cut method on every branch heavy enough to tear.
  • Plan your cut sequence on the ground before climbing.

Video transcript

There are only a few kinds of cut, and choosing the right one is most of pruning. In this lesson: the four cut types, when to use each, and how to sequence them safely.

There are four types of cut. A branch removal cut removes a branch at its point of origin, just outside the collar. A reduction cut shortens a stem back to a lateral branch large enough to take over as the new leader. A heading cut shortens a stem to a bud, a stub, or a lateral too small to take over; it's used only in specific systems. Shearing is many small heading cuts, for hedges and topiary.

The difference between reduction and heading matters on the exam and in the tree. A reduction cut goes to a lateral that's generally at least a third the diameter of the stem being removed, so it can take over, and the natural form is kept. A heading cut leaves a stub or a tiny lateral, which produces a mass of vigorous, weakly attached sprouts. Heading is appropriate only in systems like pollarding, espalier or shaping small young plants.

For any branch heavy enough to tear, use the three-cut method. First, make an undercut from below, a short way out from the collar. Second, make a top cut, a little farther out, so the branch drops away without stripping bark past the undercut. Third, make the final cut to remove the stub, just outside the collar. For reduction cuts, the same idea applies: remove weight first, then make the final, precise cut.

Sequence the whole job, not just each cut. Plan cuts from the objective before you climb. Remove dead and hazardous parts first. Work in an order that lets pieces fall clear, or be lowered, without hitting branches below, people or structures. And step back regularly to reassess, because it's easy to overprune when you only look from inside the crown.

This is one of 48 lessons in ArboristPass

The full course adds drills, flashcards, a study sheet for every lesson and 3 full mock exams.

See the course