ISA Proper Pruning Practices 2

Question 1

What is the recommended maximum percentage of live crown that should be removed in a single pruning session for a mature tree?

Accepted Answer

25%

Answer

10%

Answer

40%

Answer

50%

Question 2

What is a 'reduction cut' in arboricultural pruning?

Accepted Answer

Shortening a branch by cutting back to a lateral branch at least one-third the diameter of the removed portion

Answer

Removing an entire branch back to the trunk

Answer

Cutting a branch to a uniform hedge shape

Answer

Removing all branches below a certain height

Question 3

Why should pruning cuts avoid leaving a 'stub' extending beyond the branch collar?

Accepted Answer

Stubs prevent the tree's natural wound closure process from sealing the wound efficiently

Answer

Stubs are unsightly and reduce property values

Answer

Stubs attract woodpeckers that damage the trunk

Answer

Stubs cause the tree to lean in the opposite direction

Question 4

During which season is pruning generally most detrimental to oak trees in regions where oak wilt is present?

Accepted Answer

Spring through early summer

Answer

Late fall and winter

Answer

Late summer only

Answer

Pruning timing has no effect on oak wilt risk

Question 5

What is 'lion-tailing' and why is it considered an unacceptable pruning practice?

Accepted Answer

Stripping interior branches and foliage, leaving growth only at branch ends

Answer

Removing the entire top of the tree, which destroys apical dominance

Answer

Pruning branches into animal shapes for decorative purposes

Answer

Cutting all branches on one side of the tree for clearance

Question 6

What is the three-cut method used for when pruning large branches?

Accepted Answer

Preventing bark tearing by using an undercut, a relief cut, and a final collar cut

Answer

Making three small cuts around the branch collar for better healing

Answer

Cutting the branch at three different heights to reduce its length gradually

Answer

Creating three flat surfaces for grafting purposes