Integrated Pruning vs no Pruning

In the passage pruning is introduced as a positive practice, which improves the well being as well as shape of a tree. However, the lecturer argues against such premises and gives an example of a Silver maple tree to develop his argument.

Firstly, according to the passage, top pruning is supposed to limit the growth rate of a tree. The lecturer asserts that this can force the tree to make side branches to compensate for the lost ones in an accelerated rate. Thus, the tree reaches its full size while its root is not strong enough, and can become a hazard especially in stormy weather.

Secondly, the passage believes that cutting off some branches improves the nourishment of the remained parts. In contrast, the lecturer contends that losing the leaves leads to reduced rate of photosynthesis, which will result in starvation. This makes the tree vulnerable to diseases and pest insects.

Finally, passage suggests that top pruning keeps the shape of a tree in eye-pleasing boundaries. The lecturer opposes to this by indicating how pruned trees may take an abnormal shape, as in his example the pruned maple tree had 7 weak branches instead of one major trunk and 3 to 4 side branches.