Where should a pruning cut be made on a branch?

Making a pruning cut outside of the branch collar is essential for the health and recovery of the tree. The branch collar is the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. This collar contains specialized cells that help the tree protect itself and heal from wounds. When a cut is made just outside the branch collar, it allows the tree to effectively seal the wound and reduces the risk of decay and infection penetrating into the trunk.

Cuts made too close to the trunk, such as directly through the center or inside the branch collar, can damage this critical protective area and impede the tree’s ability to seal off the wound. Conversely, cuts made at the tip of a branch do not consider the natural healing processes of the tree and can lead to issues arising from decay. Therefore, pruning outside of the branch collar promotes proper healing and overall tree health.