CH Pruning and Plant Training

Question 1

What is the correct location to make a pruning cut when removing a branch from a tree?

Accepted Answer

Just outside the branch collar

Answer

Cuts made just outside the branch collar preserve the wound-compartmentalization tissue that the tree uses to seal the wound and prevent decay.

Question 2

Which pruning cut removes a branch back to a lateral branch or bud, encouraging outward growth?

Accepted Answer

Thinning cut

Answer

A thinning cut removes a branch to its point of origin at a larger branch or trunk, maintaining natural form and redirecting growth without stimulating dense regrowth.

Question 3

Topping a tree (indiscriminate cutting of main branches) is considered harmful primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Creates large wounds that decay and stimulates vigorous watersprouts

Answer

Topping leaves large, poorly sealed wounds prone to rot and triggers rapid, weakly attached watersprout regrowth that creates long-term structural hazards.

Question 4

The best time to prune spring-flowering shrubs such as lilac (Syringa spp.) in the US is:

Accepted Answer

Immediately after flowering

Answer

Spring-flowering shrubs set their flower buds on old wood during summer; pruning right after bloom preserves next year's buds while still shaping the plant.

Question 5

What is 'deadheading' in ornamental horticulture?

Accepted Answer

Removing spent flowers to promote reblooming

Answer

Deadheading is the removal of faded or spent flowers to redirect the plant's energy from seed production to continued flowering.

CH - Certified Horticulturist Practice Test

CH - Certified Horticulturist Practice Test

CH Pruning and Plant Training