Ultimate Guide to Trimming Austrian Pine

Step-by-Step Austrian Pine Trimming Techniques

Essential safety preparation

Essential safety preparation: Gear up with gloves, eye protection, and a helmet, and use a sturdy ladder or pole pruner as needed. Inspect the tree for dead wood, weak unions, and obvious hazards before cutting.

The three main pruning cuts for Austrian Pine

• Thinning cuts: remove interior branches at their point of attachment to open the canopy, improve light, and increase airflow while preserving the tree’s natural silhouette.
• Heading cuts: cut back to a bud or side branch to stimulate new growth and control where growth occurs; use sparingly on established pines to avoid dense, broom-like tops.
• Reduction cuts: shorten a branch to a lower lateral branch or to the branch collar to reduce height or spread while preserving form and balance; helps manage size without re-shaping from scratch.

Why it matters for Austrian Pine: thinning promotes health and structure, heading can push vigorous new shoots in sensitive directions, and reductions keep the tree within safe bounds without destroying its natural habit.

Step-by-step DIY trimming process

1) Plan and safety check: stand back, identify priorities (dead wood, crowded interior, height targets), and decide which cuts will most improve health and balance.

2) Remove dead, diseased, and damaged wood first: make clean cuts at the branch collar on limbs that pose a risk, especially on larger trees.

3) Thin the canopy selectively: remove inward- or crossing-growing branches to open the center and improve light penetration; favor smaller, well-attached limbs over large removals.

4) Address weak unions and dense growth: prune back toward healthy side branches and avoid leaving weak, narrow crotches that could fail in a storm. If two limbs compete for dominance, remove the weaker one to strengthen structure.

5) Reduce height or length with care: for tall trees, apply reduction cuts to bring leaders and scaffolds to a safer height; for large branches, use the 3-cut method (see Cutting technique reminders) and cut back to a healthy side branch or the branch collar.

6) Clean up and evaluate: remove all clippings, then step back to assess overall shape, balance, and any missed targets. If the canopy seems uneven, make minor follow-up adjustments rather than large, single passes.

Young vs mature Austrian Pine: tailored tips

• Young trees (establishment stage): emphasize establishing a strong central leader and balanced lateral growth; prune lightly and avoid heavy heading that can create pitchy, irregular form.
• Mature trees: prioritize safety and airflow, remove hazardous limbs, thin crowded interiors, and avoid aggressive reshaping; aim to preserve natural silhouette while reducing risk and weight.

Cutting technique reminders

• Branch collar and clean cuts: always cut just outside the branch collar to preserve the tree’s natural callus and reduce decay risk.
• Angles: make cuts with a slight angle (roughly 30-45 degrees) to shed water and promote faster healing.
• The 3-cut method for large branches: first, make an undercut on the underside a few inches from the eventual cut; second, cut from the top outside the undercut to create a clean break; third, remove the remaining stub back to the branch collar without leaving a flush cut.
• Avoid leaving stubs: cut back to a healthy union or to the branch collar to maintain proper callus formation.

When to step back and evaluate

• After completing each major cut, pause to inspect the canopy from multiple angles; ensure symmetry and health aren’t compromised by a single large removal.
• If growth appears unbalanced after a season, plan light adjustments rather than heavy cuts to correct shape.
• Final tip: monitor new growth after pruning and fine-tune next season.

Essential Tools for Trimming Austrian Pine

A clean, safe job starts with the right tools. Below are the core tools you’ll rely on for most Austrian Pine trimming tasks, with practical sizing guidance and tips tailored to this species’ growth habits.

Hand Pruners (Secateurs)

• What they’re best for: precise cuts on new growth, thinning crowded shoots, and removing small branches. Ideal for shaping light, exterior growth without stressing the tree.
• Approximate branch size they handle: generally up to about 3/4 to 1 inch in diameter.
• Species-specific tips: use sharp bypass blades to avoid crushing live wood; make clean, angled cuts just above a bud or lateral twig. Keep blades clean and sharp to reduce tear-out on pine needles and soft tissues. If sap is sticky, wipe blades promptly to maintain performance.
• How to use on Austrian Pine: tend to focus on twig-scale refinements and delicate thinning of the upper canopy where there’s dense, needy growth.

Loppers

• What they’re best for: mid-sized branches and thicker shoots that are out of reach for hand pruners but still within arm’s length. Great for opening up light through the interior and thinning crowded limbs.
• Approximate branch size they handle: most effective for branches roughly 3/4 to 2 inches in diameter.
• Species-specific tips: prefer bypass loppers over anvil types to avoid compressing live wood. Use long handles for leverage on taller sections; support the branch with your other hand to prevent tearing the bark. Work from the outer edges inward to maintain natural pine form.
• How to use on Austrian Pine: focus on crossing branches and crowded tops that shade inner growth; remove weakly attached growth to reduce wind resistance.

Pruning Saw

• What it’s best for: thicker, dead, or stubborn branches that cannot be safely removed with hand pruners or loppers. Essential for restoring structure on older, multi-trunked specimens or dense lower canopies.
• Approximate branch size they handle: effective for 1 to about 4 inches in diameter; larger jobs may require professional equipment.
• Species-specific tips: use a curved blade with robust teeth; cut slowly and let the saw do the work. Make a relief cut on the underside to prevent bark tearing, especially on older or live wood. Keep the saw sharp and dry between cuts to prevent binding.
• How to use on Austrian Pine: target deadwood and any branches that rub or grow toward the trunk or into work areas; avoid wounding large live branches unnecessarily.

Pole Saw/Pruner

• What it’s best for: reaching high canopy limbs and tops without ladders, ideal for tall or multi-story Austrian Pine specimens.
• Approximate branch size they handle: usually effective on branches up to about 4 to 6 inches in diameter, depending on the tool and operator skill.
• Species-specific tips: maintain a stable stance and use gradual, controlled cuts. Start with smaller, easily reachable limbs and work outward; avoid overreaching and keep the pole saw in line with the branch to prevent kickback.
• How to use on Austrian Pine: use for top-heavy pruning and removing hazards high in the crown; avoid heavy pruning from the top down in a single session to minimize shock to the tree.

Essential Safety Gear

• Gloves protect hands from sap, thorns, and sharp edges.
• Eye protection keeps pine needles, bark chips, and grit from injuring your eyes.
• A safety helmet helps shield your head during pruning, especially when lifting pruning tools and working around overhead branches.
• Sturdy, slip-resistant shoes complete the setup, reducing the risk of slips on uneven ground.

Tool Maintenance

• Sharpen regularly: keep pruners and saws sharp for clean cuts and less effort.
• Clean and sterilize between cuts: wipe blades with a clean cloth and use isopropyl alcohol or a diluted bleach solution between cuts to minimize disease spread in Austrian Pine.
• Keep joints oiled and moving: lightly oil pivot points to maintain smooth operation.
• Store properly: dry, clean tools in a shed or on a rack; keep blades covered when not in use.

When to Call a Professional

• Branches larger than about 4–6 inches in diameter.
• Work near power lines or in areas where trees are tall, mature, or hard to access safely.
• If the tree shows signs of disease, decay, or structural instability, or if you’re unsure about proper pruning technique.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trimming Austrian Pine

These common missteps can stress Austrian pines and invite pests and disease—here’s how to avoid them.

Topping and drastic height reductions

• What it is: Removing the upper crown to shorten the tree, often by drastic cuts across many branches.
• Why it’s harmful: Austrian pines rely on a strong central leader and a balanced crown. Topping destroys natural form, weakens wood, and creates large, slow-healing wounds that invite decay and pests.
• Consequences: weak, top-heavy structure; increased breakage in wind; poor aesthetics; higher maintenance needs.
• Alternative: opt for gradual height control over several seasons with selective reductions, preserving the leader and natural shape. If height is a safety concern, consult a certified arborist for a planned, staged approach.

Over-pruning or heavy pruning

• What it is: Removing a large portion of live foliage in a single session.
• Why it’s harmful: Pines rely on leafy tissue for energy and needle production. Removing too much at once stresses the tree and slows recovery.
• Consequences: slow growth, yellowing or dieback, greater susceptibility to pests and disease.
• Alternative: prune only a portion (often no more than a third) of live growth each year and give the tree time to recover between pruning events.

Flush cuts and leaving stubs

• What it is: Cutting flush against the trunk or leaving short stubs where a branch was removed.
• Why it’s harmful: These wounds are large and ready entry points for decay-causing fungi and insects.
• Consequences: internal decay, branch failure, and possible infection spreading inward.
• Alternative: make clean cuts just outside the branch collar, removing the entire branch at the right junction so the wound can seal naturally.

Heading cuts and lion-tailing

• What it is: Cutting back to a bud or removing interior branches to produce a dense, tufted crown (heading cuts), or removing interior growth to expose the outer canopy (lion-tailing).
• Why it’s harmful: These cuts promote weak, crowded growth and uneven structure in a pine, which is less wind-resilient.
• Consequences: brittle, top-heavy forks; increased wind damage; unattractive, uneven silhouette.
• Alternative: use thinning cuts at natural branch junctions and preserve interior scaffolding. Remove branches at their origin to maintain a balanced canopy and strong framework.

Pruning at the wrong time

• What it is: Pruning during the wrong season (for example, in late spring or fall).
• Why it’s harmful: Conifers heal slowly and are best pruned when dormant or when new growth has hardened.
• Consequences: increased stress, more visible pruning wounds, and greater disease risk.
• Alternative: prune during late winter or very early spring while the tree is dormant, and avoid heavy pruning during heat or active growth periods.

Using dull or dirty tools

• What it is: Pruning with dull blades, dirty blades, or unclean gear.
• Why it’s harmful: Ragged cuts heal poorly and wound edges roughen, inviting decay and disease.
• Consequences: slower healing, greater infection risk, and more damage to surrounding bark.
• Alternative: sharpen blades, sanitize between cuts (especially when working on diseased wood), and keep tools clean and in good condition.

Pruning diseased, damaged, or weak wood without addressing the problem

• What it is: Cutting away affected branches without addressing the underlying issue.
• Why it’s harmful: Disease or pests often lurk beyond the obvious symptoms; pruning alone may not stop spread.
• Consequences: ongoing decline, wasted effort, and potential transfer of disease to healthy parts.
• Alternative: remove infected branches completely and dispose of them; treat identifiable issues and consider professional guidance for systemic problems. When in doubt, consult an arborist to diagnose and treat properly.

When Is the Best Time to Trim Austrian Pine?

Plan your pruning around the tree's dormancy to minimize stress.

The primary recommended pruning window for most Austrian Pine is during the dormant season—late winter to early spring before bud break. Pruning during this period reduces stress on the tree, supports faster wound healing, makes the tree’s structure easier to see, and lowers the chance of disease or pest issues taking hold when leaves are present and conditions are warm and wet.

Best overall time

• Dormant season pruning: late winter to early spring, before new growth starts.
• Why this helps: fewer active pests, lower disease pressure, cleaner visibility of stakes, and quicker callus formation as the tree moves from dormancy into growth.
• What to do: focus on structural shaping, removing dead or damaged wood, and eliminating crossing or rubbing branches in a measured, conservative way.

• Recommended steps (Austrian Pine dormant season pruning):

1) Do a structural inspection with the tree leafless and easy to assess.

2) Identify and mark dead, diseased, or damaged limbs first.

3) Plan cuts to preserve the central leader (or strongest growing tip) and avoid heavy, abrupt reductions.

4) Make clean, angled cuts just outside the branch collar; work in small increments rather than one heavy cut.

5) After pruning, monitor for resin flow and signs of stress; avoid reopening large wounds with frequent, aggressive cuts.

Seasonal considerations

• Best overall time (late winter/early spring) with benefits
• Clear view of the tree’s true form and branch structure
• Reduced heat and drought stress during healing
• Lower risk of attracting pests or encouraging disease tied to leaves and moisture

• Acceptable alternatives
• Light corrective pruning in summer for specific issues (e.g., removing a problematic branch that interferes with a walkway or structure view)
• Immediate removal of dead, damaged, or hazardous branches at any time if safety is a concern
• Young trees can tolerate light shaping in early stages, but avoid drastic cuts during their first growing seasons

• Times to strictly avoid
• Late fall and early winter: fungal spores and pests can spread more easily as trees prepare to become dormant; pruning then increases wound exposure
• Active growing season for heavy cuts on pine species: large cuts during vigorous growth can stress the tree and lead to resin production and slower healing
• Abnormally hot, dry spells or drought conditions: pruning then can excessively stress an already stressed tree

Austrian Pine–specific notes

• Resin and wound response: Austrian Pines are resinous, not known for heavy sap bleed like maples or birches, but large cuts can ooze resin and slow healing. Clean cuts and moderate removals during the dormant season help minimize mess and promote faster sealing of wounds.
• Disease and pests: Pine-specific issues (e.g., certain beetles or nematodes in some regions) mean timing can be influenced by local conditions. In areas with known pine pests or specific quarantine advisories, follow local guidance or consult a certified arborist.
• Growth impact: Because Austrian Pines can have a strong central leader, try to prune conservatively to preserve a balanced crown. Avoid removing large portions of the crown in a single session.

Influencing factors to consider

• Local climate/region: Earlier in milder zones; later in very cold climates—adjust the window accordingly.
• Tree age/health: Younger trees tolerate pruning better and recover quickly; older or stressed trees respond more conservatively.
• Current conditions: Avoid pruning during drought, after a recent storm when wood is brittle, or during extreme heat or cold.

Signs your Austrian Pine needs trimming soon

• Dead or diseased branches
• Branches rubbing or crossing each other
• Excessive height or top growth compromising structure
• Interior branches crowded or poor light penetration
• Visible storm damage or broken limbs

When to prune, how to prune, and what to target are all influenced by your local climate, the tree’s age and health, and current weather. For homeowners aiming to keep Austrian Pines healthy and attractive, sticking to the dormant-season pruning window and prioritizing safety-prone, conservative cuts will yield the best long-term results.

Austrian Pine Trimming Tips for Different Regions?

Most common coverage map for Austrian Pine

Across regions, pruning windows and priorities shift with climate, humidity, and local pests. Use these region-specific tweaks to keep your Austrian Pine healthy and well-shaped.

Pacific Northwest

• Timing and window: prune mainly in late winter to early spring when the weather is dry, avoiding the wettest months to reduce fungal risk.
• Canopy work: use light, selective thinning to open the crown for better airflow; avoid heavy removals that stress the tree.
• Disease and humidity focus: prioritizes removing crowded interior limbs to cut damp, shaded pockets; monitor for needle blight in high-humidity years.
• Practical homeowner tips: mulch the root zone after cuts; water deeply during dry spells and watch for bark beetle signs after trimming.
• Regional tip: Common in rainy Portland or Seattle? Check our Pacific Northwest city guides for more localized advice.
• Visuals: Insert map of U.S. climate zones with Austrian Pine highlights here. Photo of well-pruned Austrian Pine in a coastal Oregon yard.

Midwest & Great Lakes

• Timing and window: late winter to early spring pruning works best; avoid pruning during thaw cycles to prevent tearing.
• Growth management: small, regular trims keep shape without over-thinning; this region’s humidity makes light cuts easier to recover from.
• Pests and diseases: be mindful of needle cast and rust in humid springs; sterilize tools between cuts.
• Practical homeowner tips: keep a loose mulch layer, but don’t pile mulch against the trunk; irrigate during prolonged dry spells.
• Regional tip: Common in Chicago, Cleveland, or Minneapolis? See our Midwest city guides for localized tips.
• Visuals: Insert map placeholder; “Photo of a well-ventilated, semi-open Midwest Austrian Pine.”

Northeast

• Timing and window: prune after the coldest period but before bud break; late winter to early spring is ideal, avoiding freezing days.
• Pruning style: favor clean, minimal cuts to minimize stress from freezing temperatures and rapid spring growth.
• Disease considerations: winter-influenced fungal pressures can spike with wet springs; disinfect pruners to prevent spread.
• Practical homeowner tips: avoid pruning during freeze-thaw days; apply mulch to conserve soil moisture after cuts.
• Regional tip: Common in Boston, New York, or Philadelphia? Look for Northeast city guides for localized tips.
• Visuals: Insert regional heat map and a photo of a tidy Northeast specimen.

Southeast (Humid Subtropical)

• Timing and window: prune in late winter to early spring before the heat and humidity rise; light, frequent shaping is better than heavy cuts.
• Airflow and health: open the canopy enough to improve airflow and reduce humidity pockets that invite disease.
• Pests and diseases: watch for fungal rust and needle blight after pruning; clean tools between trees if you’re working in a yard with several pines.
• Practical homeowner tips: water cautiously after cuts during dry spells; keep grass and weeds trimmed away from the base to reduce moisture buildup.
• Regional tip: Common in parts of Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas? Check our Southeast guides for climate-specific tweaks.
• Visuals: Insert map of climate zones with highlighted Austrian Pine; photo of a sun-drenched, open-canopy Southeast pine.

Southwest (Arid landscapes)

• Timing and window: prune in winter or early spring when temperatures are cooler; avoid hot afternoon cuts to reduce water loss.
• Canopy management: light, strategic thinning to allow light penetration and reduce heat load on inner needles.
• Water and soil: after trimming, mulch well and monitor soil moisture; prune to decrease shade so turf and shrubs aren’t overwatered.
• Pests and diseases: keep an eye on bark beetles during dry years and disinfect tools after trimming in stress-prone conditions.
• Practical homeowner tips: avoid fertilizing just before a dry spell; use a slow-release approach to support steady growth.
• Regional tip: Common in desert and high-desert towns? Explore our Southwest city guides for localized advice.
• Visuals: Insert “arid Southwest landscape” photo placeholder; map highlight.

Eco-friendly regional practices (final tip)

• Leave clean clippings to mulch around the base where appropriate; avoid piling them against the trunk.
• Support local wildlife by leaving a few undisturbed spots and a thin layer of leaf litter where feasible.
• Use water-wise practices after trimming and minimize chemical sprays in all regions to protect pollinators and soil life.

Care And Maintenance for Austrian Pine

Watering Tips

• Young trees (first 2–3 years): water deeply and slowly to soak the root zone. Aim for a thorough soak every 5–7 days during hot, dry periods, more often in extreme heat. Use a soaker hose or slow drip around the drip line to avoid wetting the trunk.
• Established trees: water as needed during prolonged droughts. Deep, infrequent watering is better than light, frequent visits. Let the soil dry slightly between soakings.
• Deep vs. frequent: shallow, frequent watering encourages surface roots. Deep soaking promotes deeper, drought-tolerant roots.
• Seasonal adjustments: in dry summers, increase irrigation; in wet climates or after heavy rains, reduce or pause irrigation. Pine needles can scorch if soil stays consistently dry.
• Signs of under-watering: wilting needles, dull color, soil pulling away from the edges of the mulch ring.
• Signs of overwatering: yellowing needles, consistently soggy soil, a marshy smell, or slow root rot. If you see these, ease off irrigation and improve drainage.
• Austrian Pine note: once established, these trees tolerate drought fairly well, but they do best with consistent moisture around the root zone.

Mulching

• Benefits: mulch conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, stabilizes soil temperature, and protects root zones from temperature swings.
• How to apply: spread 2–4 inches of mulch in a wide ring around the tree, keeping it within the drip line. Do not pile mulch against the trunk.
• Width and depth: extend mulch at least to the outer drip line; maintain a 2–4 inch layer to avoid heat buildup.
• Materials: good options include shredded bark, pine bark, wood chips, or pine straw. Organic mulches break down to enrich the soil over time.
• Trunk-friendly notes: keep mulch several inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pests. If you see soil rising at the base, gently flatten and refresh the mulch.
• Seasonal care: replenish or refresh mulch annually or as it compacts.

Fertilization & Soil

• When to fertilize: start with a soil test every 2–3 years to determine needs. Fertilize in early spring after soil has warmed, not in late summer or fall.
• What to use: choose a slow-release fertilizer labeled for evergreen trees or a balanced organic fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen products that promote rapid, tender growth.
• How to apply: apply at or just inside the drip line, following label directions. Water in after applying.
• Signs of nutrient issues: pale yellow needles, slow growth, or poor color despite adequate water.
• Austrian Pine-specific notes: avoid excess nitrogen, which can encourage fast, weak growth and increase susceptibility to pests and diseases. If a soil test shows deficiencies, treat accordingly with the recommended product and rate.

Pest & Disease Monitoring

• Common threats: bark beetles and other borers, aphids, scale, needle cast fungi, Diplodia tip blight, and Armillaria root rot. Pine wilt disease can occur in some areas; local extension resources provide region-specific risk.
• Early signs: thinning crown, sparse or discolored needles, resin exudation, small exit holes in bark, sawdust-like frass at the base, dieback of twigs, or unusual browning.
• Prevention: maintain good air circulation through pruning, avoid wounding the trunk, keep tools clean, and water properly to reduce stress. Remove and properly dispose of infested material.
• Action steps:

1) If you notice sudden, widespread decline or frass/borer activity, contact an ISA-certified arborist.

2) For aphids or minor infestations, a strong blast of water or horticultural oil can help; follow label directions.

3) Do not overreact with heavy chemical treatments on a healthy, established tree—consult a pro before systemic applications.

• When to call pros: if there are persistent dieback, multiple limbs affected, or signs of core/root rot, or if you’re unsure about treatment options.

Other Routine Care

• Winter protection: Austrian pines are hardy, but protect young trees from drying winter winds with a light mulch and a breathable windbreak if your site is exposed. Avoid de-icing salts near the root zone.
• Storm prep and recovery: after storms, inspect for broken or rubbing branches. Make clean cuts just outside the branch collar; remove damaged wood promptly but avoid over-pruning.
• Grass and vegetation: reduce turf directly under the canopy to limit root competition. Use mulch instead; keep a tidy collar around the trunk.
• Girdling roots and trunk checks: look for roots that wrap around the trunk at soil level. If you spot girdling roots or suspicious trunk damage, consult an arborist for evaluation and potential corrective steps.

If you follow these low-effort, high-impact habits, your Austrian Pine will stay healthy, resilient, and visually steady for years to come.

Benefits of Professional Austrian Pine Trimming Services

Hiring professional Austrian Pine trimming services offers practical, trustworthy advantages that pay off over time. Here are the main benefits of hiring pros:

Safety

• Handling heights, heavy branches, and proximity to power lines can pose serious hazards. Pros have training, fall protection, and proper rigging.
• They manage pruning around structures to prevent property damage and personal injury.
• Safe, controlled cuts reduce the risk of branches breaking unpredictably during storms.

Expertise

• Certified arborists bring knowledge of Austrian Pine biology, growth patterns, and pruning fundamentals.
• Early detection of disease or pests (cankers, rust, bark beetles) helps stop problems before they spread.
• They avoid common mistakes that can cause girdling, weak unions, or long-term decline.

Better outcomes

• Proper cuts encourage healthier regrowth, stronger structure, and longer tree life.
• Balanced crowns and proper spacing reduce future conflicts and maintenance needs.
• They address species-specific concerns like weak unions, bleeders, or storm vulnerability that can affect Austrian Pines.

Proper equipment & techniques

• Access to professional-grade tools, lifts, and rigging keeps cuts precise and minimal-stress.
• Clean, sterile cuts promote faster healing and reduce disease risk.
• Techniques tailored to Austrian Pine biology yield better, longer-lasting results.

Insurance & liability

• Reputable pros carry liability and workers’ compensation coverage to protect homeowners.
• Clear agreements and compliance with local codes minimize your exposure to claims.
• In the rare event of property damage, insurance coverage helps manage costs.

Time & convenience

• Pros handle site access, permits if needed, and cleanups, saving you time and effort.
• Efficient scheduling minimizes yard disruption and fit your calendar.
• Green waste removal and disposal are commonly included or readily arranged.

Long-term value

• Proactive trimming helps prevent emergencies and costly repairs later.
• Healthier trees contribute to curb appeal and potentially higher property value.
• Regular professional pruning supports a desirable growth habit and longevity over time.

Cost considerations

For a standard Austrian Pine trim, expect $200–$800 depending on size, location, and complexity. Higher costs are common for large or mature specimens or when adding services like cabling or crown work. Factors that influence price include accessibility, number of trunks, proximity to structures, and any special requests (deadwood removal, pest treatment, or custom shaping).

Signs it's time to call pros

• Branches approaching or exceeding 4–6 inches in diameter near structures or power lines.
• Visible disease signs (discolored needles, oozing, cankers) or significant dieback.
• Tree is very tall or access is limited, making safe pruning impractical for homeowners.
• Weak or tight branch unions, extensive storm damage, or complicated limb removals require professional oversight.

If you’re weighing the benefits of professional Austrian Pine trimming, these considerations highlight why a certified arborist is often the best choice. Safe practices, expert care, and reliable results add up to healthier trees, safer property, and long-term value for your landscape.