In response to Alys Fowler’s article on winter pruning (Weekend, 7 January), as an arborist I must point out some outdated guidance on tree management. Alys states: “As for what to cut, anything diseased, dying or dead goes first. Branches that are crossing and rubbing are next.” As trees are dynamic structures, exposed to environmental conditions, modern thinking is that crossing and rubbing branches are extremely important for trees, helping them create natural braces throughout their canopies. In fact, if left alone, rubbing branches can actually fuse together over time with no detriment to the tree itself. These natural braces help to lock the tree canopy together, reducing the risk of branch failure. If the brace is pruned out, particularly if it has been in place for a number of years, then this can increase the risk of branch or limb failure.
Paul Casey
Otley, West Yorkshire
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