How, when, and where to prune? The questions that beset every gardener never change, but the solutions do.

The Pruning of Trees, Shrubs and Conifers recommends the best pruning techniques and practices. This unique encyclopedic treatment details the best pruning methods for more than 450 genera of trees, shrubs, conifers, and woody climbers. The A-Z format covers several thousand species, yet remains a manageable and practical reference. Kirkham clearly explains the reasons behind pruning techniques as well as how to apply them.

George E. Brown (1917–1980) earned his diploma in horticulture at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. He returned to Kew in 1956 as an assistant curator. A founding member of the Arboricultural Association, he soon became a recognized authority on trees and shrubs.

Tony Kirkham is head of the arboretum, gardens, and horticultural services at RBG Kew. He lectures regularly internationally and is known and respected by North American tree experts at Quarry Hill, the New York Botanic Garden, the Arnold Arboretum, and other leading U.S. arboreta. Kirkham has been recognized with awards from the Royal Horticultural Society, the Arboricultural Association, and the Royal Botanic Garden. 

“The authors explain the basic principles of pruning and offer insights into why we cut trees and how to care for them, and handle specific situations such as lightning strikes, wind, cavitites and wounds, crown reduction, training and other general pruning topics.” —The Washington Post

“This revised edition continues to be a reliable learning text for those wielding cutting tools intended to assist nature in her work.” —American Reference Books Annual

“This book is masterfully written and is a ‘sophisticated’ treatise on an important subject.” —Virginia Master Gardeners Association Report

“It’s a classic.” —Plant Master
 
“[This] has to be the definitive guide and a must-have book for all enthusiastic gardeners and professional horticulturists.” —Kew

“Excellent updated edition full of color photos and ‘how-to’ drawings.” —Rocky Mountain News

“Good pruning is known both as an art and a science, and this book helps the gardener accomplish both.” —National Gardener

“Kirkham’s revision is one the student will keep and refer to repeatedly as an easy to use reference. Well organized and lavishly illustrated.” —National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Journal
 
“This recent edition includes all the latest in theory and technique.” —California Garden

“This easy-to-use reference is more practical than ever for both professinals and amateurs.” —Michigan Gardener
 
“For the definitive answer on how, when and what to prune.” —Daily Mirror

“First published in 1972 and now thoroughly revised and substantially expanded, this classic work continues to be trusted and respected as an essential guide to pruning, incorporating major advances in the science of arboriculture.” —Best of British

“Quite simply, the book on pruning.” —Gardening Newsletter