Winter is the time to check out branch structure Mike Ditmars
W
inter provides a unique opportunity to study the branch structure of trees. Without leaves to obscure our view, we are able to look for potential problems. Things to look for include rubbing or cracked limbs, limbs growing into your home or utility wires, and co-dominant leaders. What is a co-dominant leader? For many varieties of trees, it is ideal to have one leader that grows vertically with branches radiating from it. Occasionally, a tree will have more than one leader growing side by side vertically. These
branches are usually attached at a narrow angle, making for a weak branch union. As the tree ages, the connection between the leaders will weaken, making one or both of these limbs prone to splitting with high winds, snow or ice. The problem is, by this time, the leaders are rather large, creating a lot of destruction when they eventually splinter from the tree. We see co-dominant leaders frequently in pin oaks and red maples, but we also see them at times in most other tree species. If you study the Bradford pear closely, its limbs are really a mass of co-dominant leaders. This is why the Bradford is so prone to break in storms. The very best solution to this problem is to prune regularly, starting when trees are young. If you notice a co-dominant leader, remove it. The branches will still be small, the wound will quickly heal,
Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City Missouri
presents
In partnership with UMKC Garden Collective
Lessons Learned in the GARdEN Spring Gardening Seminar 11th Annual
March 3, 2012
Join us
With Advanced Training, Friday Evening, March 2
for our region’s largest and most affordable annual gathering of gardeners to learn, grow and get inspired! UMKC Student Union and Linda Hall Library, Near the Plaza
For registration,
see www.mggkc.org, or call 816-252-5051 Register in January for early bird rate!
Register by FEBRUARY 24! Image from Metamorphosis of the Insects of Surinam courtesy Linda Hall Library of Science, Engineering & Technology.
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and the shape of the tree will not be deformed. Moreover, you will be protecting your property from potential damage in the future. For older trees, there are two options. One is the removal of the weakest leader over several years. This is what arborists call subordination pruning. A portion of the branch is cut back each year for two or three years until the entire branch is removed. A second option for larger co-dominant leaders involves cabling the branches together for support. Consult a professional arborist for advice on which option to use on your tree. The point to remember is that regular, corrective pruning is the key to preventing damage in adverse weather. You will hear that there are best times to prune your trees. However, it is really okay to prune most trees anytime. You may find maple trees and birch will ooze sap if pruned at certain times in the spring, but I have not found this hurts the tree; it is more of an annoyance if the tree hangs over a deck or sidewalk.
Oftentimes, you will find better rates if you contract pruning off season. If you call a company in May to have major pruning done, expect to wait a few weeks to several months. Late spring is when quality companies get backed up with work. Take advantage of this warm winter weather to take a close look at the branch structure of all the trees on your property. This is the only time of year you can get a clear look at your trees without leaves getting in the way. Plan to remove broken branches, branches hanging over your home or driveway, rubbing branches, and of course, co-dominant leaders. Often timely, proper pruning can eliminate damage from winter storms and high winds. Mike Ditmars is an arborist at Ryan Lawn & Tree. He can be reached at 913-381-1505 or mikeditmars@ ryanlawn.com.
Taking applications for Spring! Hiring 58 people for various departments:
cashiers, nursery, annual and perennial. Part time and full time, seasonal and year round.
Knowledge helpful, but not necessary. Please apply in person. I–470 & View High Dr., Kansas City, MO 64134 • 816-763-7371 The Kansas City Gardener / February 2012