A Tree that "Has Everything" wrong with it, that is: faulty fork, bleeding borer damage, atrocious pruning. Some surgery below, two rods and a cable above can preserve this otherwise fine old cherry.

Outs to the point of being untouchable. Many a new owner, aware that his tree is a living organism, flinches from cutting any part of it as he would from operating on his child or even his dog. Trees are much more rugged than dogs or children. They feel no pain, and they will survive a few mistakes. Coupled with some understanding of tree physiology, good intentions can soon be translated into good results.

It is not suggested that home owners go up into their big trees with ladders and ropes. Leave the high work to professionals. But by learning, with your feet on the ground, to prune your young trees and mature ones of the smaller species—say, up to fifteen-footers—you can increase and insure your property's value at small cost. All your trees will take on new interest and meaning for you. A light labor of love today will reward you through many tomorrows. If wielding tools does not suit you, study the art and teach it to a helper. Plenty of people "prune" their own trees with a bamboo pole for a pointer.