DROP CROTCH PRUNING. The specific cutting back of a branch or leader to a lateral branch at least one-third to one-half the diameter of the cut being made. This pruning is designed to reduce the crown of a tree or individual branch. It is distinctly different from “topping” in that an effort is made to leave the tree as natural-looking as possible. It is sometimes referred to as crown reduction pruning or directional drop crotch pruning.
(Ord. 3161, passed - -1990)