Callus tissue should develop uniformly around the edge of the wound. Often shoulder rings are not present at branch attachments. The cutting position can be approximated by envisioning a line connecting the point bisecting the top angle of the crotch and a similar point bisecting the lower angle of attachment. The structural features of a tree may be emphasized by moderate thinning to reduce density. The structure of dogwood, ginkgo and others can be maintained in the landscape by moderate thinning out.
Homeowners often attempt to control the size of trees by pruning.
It is best to prune the tree as it begins to reach the desired height. Delaying pruning until the tree is much larger than you want it makes pruning more difficult and pruning cuts harder to hide, and it encourages excessive regrowth. Thinning-out pruning can be used to reduce the height and spread of a tree. Some limbs may be removed completely. A thinned tree retains its natural shape and is less subject to vigorous watersprouts than a headed or topped tree.