Unterästen

Unterästen are the lower lateral branches of a tree or shrub, located beneath the crown. The term is used in forestry, horticulture, and arboriculture to distinguish these branches from the higher, dominant parts of the canopy. Unterästen develop from latent buds along the trunk or from scaffold branches and typically receive less light than branches higher in the crown. Because of reduced illumination and competition for resources, they often grow more slowly, are shorter, and may be weaker than upper branches.

In practice, Unterästen influence tree architecture and crown structure. If left unmanaged, they can crowd the trunk, limit interior light, or create weak points where branches meet the trunk. In many pruning systems, Unterästen are pruned back or shortened to improve crown shape, increase light penetration, reduce disease risk, and enhance timber quality or safety. They may also be retained in certain training schemes to serve as permanent scaffold branches or to balance tree vigor, depending on species and management goals.

Etymology and usage: The term Unterast (singular) or Unteräste (plural) is German, meaning lower branches. In English-language contexts, these parts are typically referred to as lower branches or basal side branches. The concept relates broadly to tree architecture and pruning practices and is relevant for both ornamental trees and productive crops.