Quick Answer: Crossing tree branches should be pruned when they rub together, damage the bark, crowd other branches, or are likely to cause problems as they grow. Not every crossing branch needs removal. An arborist can compare the branches and keep the one that connects firmly to the tree, grows in a useful direction, and has enough space to develop. Correcting small branches is often easier and leaves a smaller wound than waiting until the limbs become large.
When Do Crossing Branches Need Attention?
Branches should be checked once they begin touching or appear likely to rub. Wind can move them against each other, scrape away bark, and expose the wood underneath. Pruning may also be needed if one branch is cracked, growing toward the trunk, or hanging over a home, driveway, or walkway. If the branches cross without touching and have enough room to grow, monitoring may be all that is needed.
Which Branch Should Stay?
The largest branch is not always the best one to keep. An arborist compares the connection, growth direction, damage, available space, and effect on nearby property. The International Society of Arboriculture advises that branches should only be removed for a clear reason. Depending on the tree, the best choice may be removing one branch, shortening it, or watching it for changes.
| What Is Checked | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Connection to the tree | A firm connection is less likely to break |
| Growth direction | An outward-growing branch may have more room |
| Bark or branch damage | A cracked or badly rubbed branch may be weaker |
| Available space | The remaining branch needs room to develop |
| Nearby property | Growth toward a roof or walkway may create a problem |
What Is the Best Time to Prune Crossing Branches?
The best time depends on the tree species, condition, and amount of work needed. During leafless months in Muncie, crossing branches can be easier to see and compare. However, a cracked, hanging, or badly damaged branch should not be ignored while waiting for winter. Some trees also need special timing because pruning during certain seasons may increase disease risk.
Why Early and Proper Pruning Matters
Removing a small crossing branch usually leaves a smaller wound and causes less change to the tree. On mature trees, removing a large limb may leave a wound that closes slowly or shifts the tree’s weight. Purdue Extension recommends making pruning cuts just outside the branch collar, the raised area where a branch joins the trunk or another limb. Cutting flat against the trunk or leaving a long stub can make wound closure more difficult.
What Happens During a Pruning Evaluation?
An arborist checks where the branches connect, whether the bark is damaged, how each branch is growing, and what could happen as the limbs become larger. The tree’s age, species, health, location, and nearby property are also considered. Large or high branches should be handled by trained tree professionals, while branches near power lines should be reported to the utility company. Josh Newsome’s Tree Surgery provides ISA Certified Arborist-led pruning evaluations in Muncie and Delaware County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between crossing and rubbing branches?
Crossing branches grow through the same area. Rubbing branches touch and scrape against each other as they move. Crossing branches may begin rubbing as they grow larger.
Can a rubbing wound close?
A tree may form new tissue around the damaged area after the rubbing stops. The result depends on the wound’s size, depth, location, and the tree’s overall health.
Can I prune crossing branches myself?
Small branches that can be reached safely from the ground may be manageable with the correct tools and cuts. Large, high, damaged, or heavy limbs should be handled by a trained professional.
How should I monitor branches that are not touching yet?
Take photos from the same location and check whether the gap is getting smaller. Look for fresh scrapes, missing bark, cracks, or changes after storms.
Can pruning prevent more branches from crossing?
Early pruning can guide a young tree’s growth and improve spacing. Future growth still needs to be checked because new conflicts may develop as the tree matures.
Request a Pruning Evaluation in Muncie
Josh Newsome’s Tree Surgery can inspect rubbing damage, compare the branch connections, and explain which limb should remain. Call (765) 378-8746 to request an arborist-led pruning evaluation in Muncie or Delaware County.