refers to the response of a particular plant to pruning. Some plants do not respond well to severe pruning in a utility right-of-way and will develop water sprouts, suckers, and poor form. Improper pruning may also cause dieback of cut branches or dieback of the entire plant. Improper pruning techniques have a direct correlation to both vitality and debris buildup in the plant, which results in an increase in its potential fuel load and ignitability.