What is the purpose of a pruning sealant?

The purpose of a pruning sealant is to protect the cuts on a tree or plant from pests and disease. When a tree is pruned, it creates an open wound that can be vulnerable to infestation by insects or infection by pathogens such as fungi or bacteria. A pruning sealant acts as a barrier, helping prevent these opportunistic pests and diseases from entering the exposed tissues, which can safeguard the health of the plant.

Using a sealant can also provide some degree of moisture retention, which may help in the healing process. However, the main and most critical function is to serve as a protective layer against external threats, thus ensuring the integrity of the tree after it has been trimmed. This focus on protection is why the correct answer highlights the role of preventing pests and diseases. Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not address the fundamental protective purpose of a sealant.