Mulching

��� To help improve the soil and root environment, and control grass or weeds, a 3-4 inch layer shuold be maintained after planting. As the tree grows in height and width, the root system is also expanding. In all cases, root growth extends out past the branch spread of the tree. A mulch circle 4-6 feet in diameter is an acceptable size for an establish tree.

Pruning

��� Pruning is vital to tree health, yet it is probably the most neglected tree maintenance practice. Proper pruning improves form, encourages a central leader, prrevents weak branch forks, nd eliminates dead or broken branches. it is important to begin pruning while the tree is young, removing problems while they are small.
��� During the first two growing seasons, prune trees as little as possible. Remove only dead, broken, or rubbing branches. This allows trees to use all their leaves to establish and develop their root systems, and to overcome planting stress without additional stress from prunng wounds. After this time period, pruning should be performed to correct poor form.
��� Prune any crossing or rubbing branches, weak forks, or multiple leaders (see diagrams on enxt page). Treating the pruning wounds with a pruning paint is not recommended. There is little evidence to support the use of pruning paint in preventing decay or promoting rapid healing.

continue to the next page

KUFC Homepage
04-29-99 � Webmaster