Elm Tree Pruning Summary
This mature elm (Ulmus spp.) underwent corrective pruning due to extensive structural defects and hazard potential. The tree exhibited large-diameter deadwood, broken limbs, and overextended scaffold branches that posed a significant risk to nearby structures and a neighboring property’s children’s play area. The primary goal was risk mitigation while promoting long-term canopy health and structural integrity.
A combination of crown cleaning, crown reduction, and weight reduction was performed in accordance with ANSI A300 (Part 1) standards. Dead, damaged, and diseased branches were removed to improve safety and tree health. Reduction cuts were made on overextended limbs to lower end-weight and reduce mechanical stress, particularly on branches exhibiting poor attachment or decay at the union. This weight redistribution improves load dynamics and helps prevent future failure during high wind events.
The pruning also served to rebalance the canopy and increase light penetration and air circulation, which benefits both the elm and surrounding vegetation. All cuts were made using proper arboricultural technique, preserving branch collars to support natural wound closure and compartmentalization (CODIT). The work was performed with sensitivity to tree physiology, aiming to stimulate healthy epicormic growth and encourage strong future structure.
Routine monitoring and follow-up pruning in the next 2–3 years is advised to manage regrowth and maintain.
