Pruning is a process to improve the tree's structure and encourage new and healthy growth by selectively cutting and getting rid of dead, overgrown, or unwanted branches. However, several tree experts do not recommend the practice of lion's tail pruning or lion tailing as a routine part of residential tree pruning. Lion's tail pruning gets its name from the way the branch looks after the use of this technique. It is a method of over-pruning that involves trimming off or removing all the interior branches and foliage except for minimal growth at the end, resembling a lion's tail. This practice is hazardous as it causes significant damage to the health and structural stability of the tree.
Why is lion's tail pruning wrong?
Leaves are essential for photosynthesis. Once 50-70% of a tree's foliage is removed by this method, the food supply will reduce automatically, and it will suffer from malnutrition.
Epicormic sprouting or water sprouts, which is a stress reaction caused due to over-pruning, weakens the tree's overall structure.
The long branches devoid of leaves will break and split in the face of events like high winds and snowfall.
The earlier shaded and now exposed tree branches become more susceptible to sunburn, and its barks can split open, causing open wounds.
The trees become more prone to diseases and pest invasion.
There are increased chances of either the whole tree or its large limbs to come down.
Lion's pruned trees do not appear beautiful or attractive and can spoil the look of the garden.
Once a tree that has undergone lion's pruning is damaged due to high winds or storms, it is extremely tough to restore it.
Adopting widely prevalent but poor tree pruning techniques does more harm than good. However, all is not lost if a tree has been over-pruned. It still has chances to recover if you allow the development of sprouts into the branches and allow the growth of interior branches in a phased manner under a professional tree service company's supervision.
Tree pruning is an art and requires experience and expertise to accomplish. Hiring untrained and non-certified workers to prune the trees will only end in a disaster. A certified tree service company will always advise against adopting pruning techniques like lion's tailing and hat-racked that may harm them. Being a tree owner comes with the duty of knowing what is the safest to keep them healthy and growing. Correct pruning techniques will keep the trees looking healthy and beautiful. The best way to avoid disaster is to communicate with the professional about your requirements and ensure that all doubts and questions are addressed clearly.
Chuck’s Tree Service offers tree trimming and pruning, palm tree trimming, and tree removal, in Pasco, Hernando and Pinellas Counties. 24/7 emergency service. Call us today at 352-747-8182!
