Prune the Unnecessary

It’s amazing when you are flattened with the flu that half of December can blow right by but you are still required to complete the remainder of the 2010 to-do list. Yikes! So not to panic, it helps to stay focused and take care of the priorities.

Ralph Waldo Emerson reminds us in a horticultural way the importance of trimming the unnecessary. “As the gardener, by severe pruning, forces the sap of the tree into one or two vigorous limbs, so should you stop off your miscellaneous activity and concentrate your force on one or a few points.”

Speaking of pruning, this is a good time to take care of any dead branches or split crotches on a tree before any heavy snow or ice. This isn’t the season for major pruning, which is typically performed in late winter to early spring. This is the time for obvious pruning; to remove the dead or weakened limbs and attend to any apparent structural issues.

When the ground is frozen and there is little to no snow, it is ideal to remove any large hazard trees or trees earmarked for removal. But like anything, don’t undertake tasks that should be done by a professional. It’s not the season for emergency room visits so use common sense.

If you prune now, you have less catch-up work when the weather starts to break. In short, make good use of your time before snow flies. Rid yourself of the unnecessary activities and focus on those that are a priority. Before you know it, the clock will strike midnight and 2011 and all its resolutions will be upon you. Pick one or two tasks and focus. You can achieve great things when you keep your compass set on a clear direction.

P.S. You want to make sure you aren’t removing any residents.
All images from the Internet.

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