Pruning young, developing trees (a process known as developmental pruning) is one of the best preventative measures a tree owner can take. It prevents the majority of structural defects that cause failure in mature trees. Structural pruning a young tree avoids the need for more expensive tree care practices later in the tree’s life. It also extends the lifespan of the tree by decreasing the likelihood of branch failures.
Structural pruning of young, developing trees provides a desirable and structurally stable form at maturity. Developmental pruning is one of the best investments that tree owners can make in their landscape.