Pruning is much more than the simple act of sawing off limbs. Proper pruning is an art based on scientific principles of plant physiology. At its most basic level, pruning trees involves removing damaged, dead or structurally weak limbs, which will improve a tree’s health and reduce the chances of personal or property damage caused by falling limbs. More advanced pruning methods aid in improving the tree’s structure and long-term health. Proper pruning encourages growth, increases flower and fruit production, improves plant health and removes damaged limbs, all which give aesthetic appeal to a tree.

Pruning the right way is critical, since it is possible to kill a tree by neglect or over-pruning. Any reputable legitimate tree care company should employ ISA Certified Arborists and conduct all tree pruning operations in accordance with the American National Standards Institute’s industry standard for tree pruning, which is called ANSI A300.

This standard recommends, and in some cases requires, that the use of certain tools, cutting techniques and pruning methods be followed, and sets the standard definitions for terms the arborist will use in your estimate. Properly written work estimates for tree pruning should be written in accordance with ANSI A300 standards. In addition to the information given on the work estimate, ANSI A300 sets some guidelines for basic pruning practices that true arborists should follow.