Pruning Ornamental Trees

Apparently intended for arborists, this tape begins with an excellent discussion of why pruning is necessary, before segueing into a scientific terminology-laden examination of tree growth and development, followed by a disappointing discourse on the tools and techniques needed to shape, thin, confine, and otherwise whittle the limbs and branches of trees. The use of a lift truck, references to "co-workers," and the reliance on tree-climbing gear suggest that, unfortunately, this tape is not geared toward Joe Homeowner, a suspicion readily confirmed by the lack of truly basic instruction on how to hold and use pruning tools, the failure to elaborate on why a certain cut had a "do not do this" symbol over it, and a complete absence of even elementary drawings affording a close-up view of where to cut for each type of pruning technique. Although the external production values are generally good, the program offers too little detail, is aimed at too specific a market, and at $95 is simply too expensive to be either useful or cost-effective for general collections. If your school, college or community offers a tree-care vocational program, you might want to consider; otherwise, this is not recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Glaser)