Pruning/repairing Oak Tree

[Ryksa]

We have just had to cut back a branch of a young oak tree in our garden due to being damaged. It has been cut back to about 1 1/2 meters in length. Should this be further cut back to the trunk or is it OK as it is. I have heard that if not pruned correctly then disease might set in. Or is this length OK to keep as it still has greenery( or will have in summer). The branch where cut is about 2 in in diameter.

[Chipchopper]

Hi Ryksa,
I'd say yes unless there is plenty of twiggy material that you've pruned back to.

You want to avoid leaving a stub, but also, don't cut back flush with the main stem, but rather cut a little away from the stem, just at the point where it begins to swell, there is plenty of tissue at which should grow over the wound.

to avoid it splitting down, firstly under-cut 6 inches or so, away from the stem, before finally cutting back to where the bulge is. A flush cut is known as target pruning and is not desireable.

[Ryksa]

Thanks for the answer.

I think you are right and it should be cut back to the trunk. Thanks also for the clear instructions on how to do it.