Tree Trimming and Pruning Tips

What is Tree Trimming?
Tree trimming is more than cutting away a few branches here and there. It is an essential aspect of tree care and is crucial to your tree’s health and aesthetics. Keep in mind that there is a proper approach to trimming and that you should not overdo it. Over trimming can lead to the tree’s sudden deterioration. Safety should be the top priority in trimming. Untrimmed trees that grow near power lines can start a fire. Overgrown trees also tend to become an obstruction to pedestrians and drivers alike.
 
Tips

• It is recommended to trim trees in its dormant state. But, if you see any broken or dead branches, you should cut them away no matter the season is.
• Consider the size of the branches that you will trim. It is safe to remove a branch that is less than 5 centimeters in diameter. If the branch is between 5 to 10 centimeters in diameter, leave it be. Further, if the branch is beyond 10 centimeters in diameter, you better have a valid reason to remove it.
• Only trim branches that are V-shaped and have narrow angles, while keeping those with U-shaped angles. Side branches that are between ½ and ¼ the total diameter of the stem are safe to be removed.
• You should keep the ratio of living crown to the tree height at 2/3.
• Start trimming your trees in the early stage of their life because it reduces the risk of leaving scars.
• Be careful not to harm the branch collar or leave a stub. Don’t trim the branch too near the branch collar.

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What is Tree Pruning?
Tree pruning is as necessary as tree trimming. It is one of the standard methods in tree maintenance. For trees that are planted in a forest, nature usually takes care of pruning these trees. However, the same is not the case for landscape trees. Pruning should be done with a deep understanding of the tree’s needs and the right technique to do it.
 
Tips

• Lateral branches, especially on young trees, should be appropriately spaced.
• Get rid of branches that grow towards each other or rub against them.
• Avoid pruning more than ¼ of the crown in one session. If there is a need for you to do so, spread it out in several years.
• You can raise the crown by pruning to give clearance for vehicles and pedestrians. Keep the branches at 2/3 of the tree’s height. Removing too many branches at the lower part of the tree may cause weak stems.
• If you will need to prune more than half of the leaves from a branch, it is best to remove the entire branch.

 
Conclusion
Trimming and pruning are essential for a healthy and well-maintained look of your trees. You will do your trees a favor if you invest in professional tree pruning and trimming because it doesn’t only impact their development, but their aesthetics as well. An expert tree service can provide tree care that it exactly needs.