| [College of ACES] | [University of Illinois] | [Illinois CES] |
I've heard that point of view many times over the years... like "balancing" root loss by pruning... many use that argument to prune heavily when transplanting as well! I don't go for it...
- Reducing foliage mass is required to allow for water absorption (via roots)... so reducing foliage will reduce water uptake, enhancing the effects of moisture stress.
- Reducing foliage mass reduces shading of twigs, branches, and stems increasing overall temperatures effects and increasing moisture loss.
- A thinner canopy will reduce shade on the underlying soil, enhancing loss of soil moisture and possible even resulting in direct loss of fibrous roots via increased soils temperatures.
- A thinner canopy will enhance the effects of wind on each leaf, increasing moisture loss.
- All wounding (e.g., pruning) results in carbohydrate consumption required to implement compartmentalization.
- etc., etc.
Unfortunately... your customer may be right... in fact, better not to prune during the dry season at all. How about circulating an informational flyer to all efected customers, recommending THEY water the trees, with instructions as to frequency, amount and technique... such a communication would improve your public image as well by illustrating your desire to prederve the trees!
Hope the helps!
Torrey
P.S.: Also try posting at the Utility Arborist Association site.
TY