Why "art of pruning" is practiced by gardners?
Answers
Pruning trees and shrubs is an art and a science. From an artistic perspective, a discerning eye is needed to evaluate a plant, then determine what (if anything) must be done to achieve the desired appearance. From a scientific perspective, knowing the when, where, and how of pruning a plant is equally, if not more, important. However, it isn’t necessary for a gardener to be an artist or a scientist to achieve quality results.
It could be argued the art of pruning begins before a plant is ever placed into the ground. Following a “Right Plant, Right Place’” approach to choosing plants for the landscape helps many gardeners avoid unnecessary and laborious pruning tasks. Why create a problem, when it could be avoided altogether? In using a “Right Plant, Right Place” approach, the gardener should consider the site in which the plant will be placed, and then choose the plant best suited for the space. Considerations for the mature size of the plant helps to prevent plants from overgrowing their space, getting too close to structures, covering windows, obstructing sidewalks, etc.
The art of pruning can also be found in the natural form of a plant. When gardeners become familiar with the natural form of the plants in their landscape, they are better equipped to understand how the plant should look. Individual tastes and desires factor into whether a gardener chooses to create a hedge or topiary with their garden plants. A finely-manicured hedge or topiary is more work than most gardeners have the time or patience to achieve. However, allowing plants to maintain their natural form and restricting pruning to only structural and emergency pruning will produce an attractive and low-maintenance landscape.
When considering the science of pruning, it’s important to contemplate how pruning affects the plant. In essence, the activity of pruning causes damage and stress to the plant. In many instances, pruning is necessary to improve the health and productivity of a plant in the long term. However, a gardener should take all steps necessary to minimize the damage and stress to the plant when possible. A stressed plant is more susceptible to insect and disease attack, as well as drought and cold damage.
Answer:
In "art of pruning”, apical bud, i.e. the stem tip is cut off, then the auxin production is stopped and lateral buds become active which results in rapid growth of plants. It gives a bushy appearance to the plant. That is why it is practiced by gardners.