What is Cladoptosis?

Trees self-prune to remove branches that are unproductive, shaded, or diseased. This can happen as part of a tree’s normal physiology or in response to stress. 

The tree seals off the branch by depositing resins at its base, which causes the branch to die. Fungi and insects weaken the branch, and eventually, the wind, snow, or ice breaks it off. 

Mature trees with large, horizontal limbs are more likely to self-prune. It’s also more likely to happen on a hot summer day. 

Self-pruning helps trees remove foliage that’s less vigorous or has limited access to resources. 

• Some tree species, like pines, larches, poplars, willows, maples, oaks, and walnuts, shed branches regularly, often in the fall.
• Sudden branch drop

A dangerous type of self-pruning where big limbs fall out of a tree with little warning. This can happen due to internal moisture changes, tissue shrinkage, gas releases, or microscopic cell wall changes.

While trees have a natural ability to self-prune, it’s crucial to trim them, particularly young trees actively. Structural pruning is vital for these young trees as it helps guide their growth in the right direction from the very start.