Why is crown pruning recommended after transplanting?

Why is crown pruning recommended after transplanting?

• A. To encourage flowering
• B. Reduces transpiration until roots reestablish
• C. To increase root growth rate
• D. To remove dead branches

Answer: (B)

After transplanting, the plant’s root system is reduced and can’t supply water to a full canopy. Crown pruning lowers leaf area and reduces transpiration, which cuts the plant’s water loss while roots reestablish. That helps the plant survive and recover more quickly during the critical establishment period. Other options aren’t the main goal here: flowering isn’t the priority during establishment, crown pruning doesn’t directly speed up root growth, and while removing dead branches can be part of care, it isn’t the primary reason for pruning after transplanting.

After transplanting, the plant’s root system is reduced and can’t supply water to a full canopy. Crown pruning lowers leaf area and reduces transpiration, which cuts the plant’s water loss while roots reestablish. That helps the plant survive and recover more quickly during the critical establishment period. Other options aren’t the main goal here: flowering isn’t the priority during establishment, crown pruning doesn’t directly speed up root growth, and while removing dead branches can be part of care, it isn’t the primary reason for pruning after transplanting.