QuestionI planted a Kousa dogwood sapling 2 years ago. It is about 4-5 feet tall. My Aunt thinks I should prune the branches which are near the ground. I think I should leave it alone as the tree will grow. Who is right?
AnswerI agree with you--leave it alone. If the lower branches are causing problems with walking under them like when mowing or hitting objects then you might prune them. But if the tree is growing out in the open and the limbs are not bothering anything leave them be for now. Let it grow you can always prune them later but for now they help the tree grow by having more foliage to supply the roots with food causing the roots to grow more. For the time being I would let it grow. The lower limbs are not hurting anything.
