FREE ISA Proper Pruning Practices Questions and Answers

Question 1

When removing a large, heavy limb from a mature oak tree, what is the primary reason for using the three-cut method?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the weight of the limb from tearing the bark down the trunk.

Answer

To ensure the final cut is perfectly flush with the trunk.

Answer

To speed up the removal process by making three quick cuts.

Answer

To create a smaller wound surface for faster callus development.

Question 2

An arborist is hired to reduce the height of a large, spreading maple tree that is growing too close to overhead utility lines. Which of the following is the most appropriate and professionally accepted pruning technique?

Accepted Answer

Crown reduction by pruning branches back to suitable lateral limbs.

Answer

Crown thinning to remove interior branches.

Answer

Topping the tree by making large heading cuts.

Answer

Crown raising to provide clearance from below.

Question 3

A proper pruning cut should be made just outside the branch collar. What is the primary anatomical feature the branch collar contains that makes its preservation so crucial?

Accepted Answer

Tissue that rapidly forms woundwood to seal the cut.

Answer

Latent buds that will sprout new branches.

Answer

Thick bark that protects against sunscald.

Answer

Stored sugars that provide energy for the entire tree.

Question 4

Which of the following describes the practice of 'subordination pruning'?

Accepted Answer

Shortening a competing stem or branch to slow its growth and encourage a stronger leader.

Answer

Removing all lower branches to a predetermined height.

Answer

Making heading cuts on all terminal branches to create a hedge.

Answer

Removing one or more codominant stems in favor of a single leader.

Question 5

While it is acceptable to remove dead, dying, or broken branches at any time, the best time to perform major structural pruning on most deciduous trees to maximize wound closure and minimize stress is during the:

Accepted Answer

Dormant season, such as late winter or very early spring.

Answer

Late spring, after the leaves have fully expanded.

Answer

Middle of summer, during the peak of photosynthesis.

Answer

Early autumn, as the tree begins to go dormant.

Question 6

A reduction cut is a pruning cut that shortens a stem or branch back to a lateral branch. To be considered a proper reduction cut, the remaining lateral branch should be:

Accepted Answer

At least one-third the diameter of the branch being removed.

Answer

No more than one-quarter the diameter of the branch being removed.

Answer

Perfectly perpendicular to the branch being removed.

Answer

Younger than two years old.