The Science and Biology of Pruning

This Zoom Tree Talk by Chris Roddick, an ISA Certified Arborist and a Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA). He is the author of the Tree Care Primer, a guide to care for young, mature, and veteran trees. For thousands of years, people have used the ancient practice of pruning to manipulate and enhance trees and shrubs. Yet the science and biology behind pruning is still among the most misunderstood practices in the field.

This Tree Talk will take a deep dive into the science of pruning while looking closely at the biological responses of trees. We’ll discuss topics such as cladoptosis and natural pruning, compartmentalization, and the roll of fungi and plant hormones. And last, how best to make pruning decisions understanding what the plant needs. Join us!