To prune a live limb you need to first make an undercut to prevent bark from tearing as the weight of the branch starts to fall. Next locate the "branch collar" that grows from the stem tissue at the underside of the base of the branch. On the upper surface, there is usually a branch bark ridge that runs (more or less) parallel to the branch angle, along the stem of the tree. Begin the cut just outside the branch bark ridge and angle it down and away from the stem of the tree. When you follow this basic step, you ensure a fairly rapid wound closure, maintaining a healthy tree.

As with any landscaping job, the right tools are essential if you expect to carry out a successful pruning. Sterilize all blades to prevent spreading disease.

On smaller limbs you can use pruning loppers. There are two basic designs you can choose from: by-pass action and anvil action. The main difference is that with by-pass action, a thin, sharp blade slides closely past a thicker but also sharp blade, whereas with anvil action, a sharpened blade cuts against a broad, flat blade. In either case, it is essential that blades that are meant to be sharp really ARE sharp, or you'll simply end up tearing and shredding the limb instead of making a clean cut.

A pruning saw can be effective as well, especially on thicker limbs. Just remember that the cutting action occurs on the draw back of the blade.

Higher and heavier limbs can be pruned using a pole-saw pruner. This basically consists of a hooked blade above and a cutting blade beneath. The cutter is on a pole and is operated by pulling a rope downward. I have to say that this can be risky! Cut limbs have a habit of falling suddenly and can strike whatever is below... including you! Wear a hard hat and eye protection at all times. Or talk to a landscape professional let them worry about falling limbs!