Trees require pruning for the same reasons as other plants. The first is to train plants into the desired form. Prune early and often to encourage single main trunks in shade trees. Always remove dead, diseased or damaged branches including those crossing and rubbing each other. For flowering and fruiting trees, pruning results in fewer, larger flowers and fruit. Finally, pruning keeps plants in bounds where space is limited. With trees remember to plant wisely so little pruning for size restriction has to be done. Keep large trees away from power lines or buildings.

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