How frequently should pruning tools be sanitized when pruning diseased branches?

How frequently should pruning tools be sanitized when pruning diseased branches?

• A. After each cut
• B. Before each cut
• C. Once daily
• D. Only when visibly dirty

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to prevent spreading disease through the pruning tool by disinfecting between cuts. When diseased branches are involved, pathogens can hitch a ride on the blade and move into healthy tissue with the next cut. Sanitizing the tool after every cut stops that transmission, keeping the plant healthier as you work. Use a suitable disinfectant (like a 10% bleach solution or 70% alcohol), apply it to the blade, and allow it to dry before making the next cut. Sanitizing only when the blade looks dirty, doing it only once daily, or sanitizing only before cuts would let pathogens be carried forward with each pruning step, increasing the risk of spreading disease.

The main idea is to prevent spreading disease through the pruning tool by disinfecting between cuts. When diseased branches are involved, pathogens can hitch a ride on the blade and move into healthy tissue with the next cut. Sanitizing the tool after every cut stops that transmission, keeping the plant healthier as you work. Use a suitable disinfectant (like a 10% bleach solution or 70% alcohol), apply it to the blade, and allow it to dry before making the next cut. Sanitizing only when the blade looks dirty, doing it only once daily, or sanitizing only before cuts would let pathogens be carried forward with each pruning step, increasing the risk of spreading disease.