The most common repair homeowners can make on their trees following a storm or hurricane is pruning, according to LSU AgCenter agriculture and natural resources expert Barton Joffrion. The LSU AgCenter extension agent from Terrebonne Parish explains proper pruning procedures.

Pruning small branches is easy. Simply cut small branches at the point where they join larger branches.

Pruning large branches is more complex, Joffrion says. Because of their weight, large branches can tear loose during pruning. Tearing loose can strip the bark and create jagged edges that invite insects and disease.

You can avoid this problem by following three steps. First, make a partial cut on the large branch from beneath, at a point several inches away from the trunk.

Second, make a full cut on the branch from above, at a point several inches out from the first cut. This cut will allow the limb to fall safely.

Third, complete the job with a final cut just outside the branch collar, which is the raised area that surrounds the branch where it joins the trunk.

For additional information about tree care and hurricane preparedness contact an extension agent in your parish LSU AgCenter office and check out the links at the LSU AgCenter home page, www.lsuagcenter.com.

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On the Web: Look for online disaster publications "Living with Hurricanes and "There’s a Hurricane Forming" in the publications section of the LSU AgCenter’s Web site at www.lsuagcenter.com.

Source: Barton Joffrion (985) 873-6495, or bjoffrion@agcenter.lsu.edu