Pruning is essential to keeping trees, shrubs, and other plants healthy and beautiful. Not only does pruning keep plants from getting unwieldy and large, it also allows light and air to reach more branches, encourages fruit and blossom growth, removes diseased branches, and adds structural strength to plants. But many homeowners and gardeners feel overwhelmed by pruning. When is the right time to prune? How much should be removed? What's the difference between pinching and heading back? What tools should be used? How can a homeowner ensure that pruning ultimately enhances - and doesn't harm the plant? For all these questions and more, The Pruning Answer Book has the answer. Written by two highly respected garden writers with years of experience in providing pruning advice, this book is sure to become a tool as essential as the pruning shears themselves. With clear, concise advice, a brow sable format, a friendly tone, and how-to illustrations, this book provides everything a homeowner needs to safely achieve attractive, long-lasting, and healthy plants.