Pruning – A Key Part of Tree Care

The selective removal of plant parts, primarily branches, buds, leaves and flowers, to influence the development and health of woody plants (trees, shrubs). Pruning is a key part of tree care that, when performed properly, increases a tree’s safety and beauty, as well as the longevity of the landscape investment.

Most pruning is aimed at improving structure and reducing growth, which can help reduce the need for future removals, prevent disease or pest problems, repair storm damage or other issues, open vistas, or create clearance for structures and traffic. It can also be used to correct problems, such as rubbing or crossing limbs, water sprouts, and suckers growing from roots or trunks.

To prune effectively, it is important to understand why you are doing the work and how different cuts affect a plant. It is also important to use clean tools between pruning on different plants because diseases can be transferred from one cut to another.

Identifying problem limbs is the first step. Branches that are dead or dying should be removed as soon as they are noticed, regardless of time of year. These limbs are not only unsightly, but they can also lead to further decay or insect infestations. It is a good idea to remove the whole branch and not just a stub. This will allow the tree to compartmentalize the wound and limit the spread of disease or insects into living tissue.

Proper pruning technique is essential to good results and can be learned through training courses or working with a reputable arborist. In general, you should never remove more than one-third of the crown in any given season on deciduous trees and about 25 percent on evergreens. This will ensure that new growth has time to develop before the tree or shrub goes dormant in the fall.

Different goals call for different pruning techniques. Formative structural cuts are done on young trees and shrubs to shape them and guide their growth. This includes raising the center of a canopy to reduce wind resistance or shade and lightening the overall weight of the plant to increase the amount of sun reaching the ground. Pruning for size management typically shortens branches that are encroaching on power lines or extending over a home or driveway.

To remove large limbs, reduction cuts are made to a lateral branch that is at least one-third the diameter of the limb being removed. The lateral branch must be located higher up in the canopy to reduce the potential for water sprouts to grow from the site of the cut. When a lateral branch is used, it is important that the pruning cut is made at the point of attachment to the branch collar or bark ridge to avoid leaving a stub and to maintain the branch defense zone.

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What Is Arborist Consulting?

Arborist Consulting is a highly specialized field that requires extensive training and experience. Consulting Arborists work with clients to provide professional advice on tree-related issues and projects, including assessing trees, creating protective zones around a project site, writing specifications and providing representation on behalf of the client. While many professionals in the green industry hold a Certified Arborist credential, only consulting arborists can offer a variety of specific services to clients and projects.

An unbiased opinion

As a consultant, arborists provide clients with an honest, professional assessment of a tree’s condition and potential risk factors based on location, size and species of the tree in question. This allows property owners, developers and municipalities to make informed decisions about how best to maintain their landscapes and manage their trees while reducing the likelihood of costly consequences.

Tree inventories

An important part of a consulting arborist’s job is to conduct a detailed inventory of the existing trees on a property prior to a construction or development project. These surveys help to identify a tree’s caliber, age and overall health as well as the presence of any protected or endangered species. An unbiased, comprehensive and accurate report is then created that can be used by the lead agency to approve or deny permits for any tree work needed.

Pruning

Unlike the average homeowner, consulting arborists have the proper training and equipment to prune your trees properly. Practicing incorrect pruning techniques can result in lopsided trees that not only look unsightly but can also create wounds on the tree which invite pests to take up residence and potentially cause further damage. Arborists can also recommend certain pruning methods to prevent a problem from occurring in the future, as well as provide guidance for future maintenance.

A tree protection plan

A consulting arborist can help protect the health of a site’s existing mature trees by working closely with designers, contractors and municipalities before, during and after a project to keep trees safe. This can include developing strategies such as a tree protection zone or spreading mulch to avoid root damage from excavation equipment during construction.

Consultation with contractors

Having an experienced and knowledgeable consulting arborist on hand to advise the contractor on safe practices while working near city-owned trees is a must. This can save the city time and money in having to fine contractors for unauthorized work as well as prevent the costly consequences of injury or damage to these sensitive trees.

An unbiased arborist can also help to keep projects on schedule and within budget by assisting with permit processing, monitoring and inspections during construction. In addition, a knowledgeable consultant can help the contractor and design team to develop ways to minimize any impacts to trees by making substitutions or working with an alternative solution that is still protective of the city’s urban forest. A qualified consulting arborist can also help the project manager file Weely Inspector Reports with Parks to avoid potential penalties from NYCDPR for unpermitted work.

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What is Tree Lopping?

Tree Lopping is the process of removing branches, either large or small from a tree, usually in order to reduce its overall size. The process is often done for aesthetic reasons but it can also be used to train the tree to grow in a specific shape. The process is usually performed by highly skilled and experienced tree loppers who use advanced cutting techniques to ensure that the structure of the tree is not impacted. It can be a very useful technique for reducing the risk of trees posing a safety threat to a home or business or when a tree’s extensive growth is coming into contact with power lines, however, it is recommended that this type of service should only be used when it is necessary and is undertaken by trained professionals.

Unlike tree pruning, which is typically carried out on a regular basis by professional arborists, lopping is an aggressive and extensive method of removing a tree. When carried out incorrectly, it can cause serious damage and may even lead to a tree’s death.

One of the biggest problems with a lopping operation is that it removes a significant amount of a tree’s leaves, which are the plant’s primary food source. This can temporarily starve the tree, causing it to go into emergency growth mode and attempt to make up for what has been lost. Unfortunately, this extra growth is usually weak and prone to disease and pest infestations.

Additionally, lopping can damage a tree’s internal structure by removing too many of its vital energy reserves. When a tree is lopped, the cut ends are left exposed, which makes them vulnerable to decay and insect infestations. Additionally, improper cuts can result in large wounds that can take a long time to heal. By contrast, properly made cuts follow the natural “collar” of the branch and are removed in a way that promotes rapid healing.

Both trimming and pruning are beneficial for the health of a tree. Proper pruning can improve the appearance of a tree, promote growth, and prevent diseases from spreading to other parts of the tree. It can also reduce the risks of a tree falling or damaging nearby structures. Tree loppers can also help maintain the health of a tree by removing dead branches and addressing issues such as structural weaknesses or root rot.

It is important to understand the difference between Tree Lopping and Tree Pruning so that you can work with a knowledgeable and experienced tree care specialist. An arborist can perform a risk and health assessment to determine whether a tree needs to be lopped or pruned. Only when it is appropriate will the arborist recommend this service. Otherwise, it’s best to avoid lopping trees altogether in order to protect them from injury and prevent future damage.

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The Benefits of Stump Removal

Stump Removal is an important aspect of landscape maintenance for safety, appearance, and pest control. Stumps not only take up valuable garden space, but they can also create tripping and falling hazards, prevent future growth of desirable plants, and attract wood-boring insects like termites and carpenter ants. If left untreated, a decaying stump can eventually damage nearby trees and homes. The best time to remove a tree stump is during the winter and early spring, when the weather is cooler and more stable, which can help reduce lawn damage and speed up the process.

There are several methods for removing a stump, but a professional stump grinder is the most effective and economical. This option can quickly and completely remove the stump and its roots, leaving you with a clean and open space that’s ready for new planting or landscaping. If you choose to grind the stump yourself, be sure to use proper safety equipment including gloves, eye protection and work boots to protect yourself from its sharp edges.

Chemical Stump Killer

Stumps can be treated with a stump killer to remove them more quickly than other methods. These products typically contain potassium nitrate, which works by speeding up wood decay. The process is relatively simple: homeowners drill holes into the stump, fill them with the chemicals and then wait as it slowly decomposes. However, it can take weeks or even months to fully work, and isn’t the safest option if you have children or pets in the area.

Burning

Another quick but dangerous method for removing a stump involves drilling holes in the stump and filling them with kerosene, fuel oil or other types of burning liquid. The stump is then ignited and burned until it is reduced to ashes. This method can be very dangerous, is illegal in some areas and may cause air pollution.

Leaving the Stump

A rotting stump can eventually become home to wood-boring insects, which can then spread to surrounding trees and possibly your home. Removing the stump and its roots helps to prevent these pests from infesting your property, and can save you money on costly home repairs.

Enhanced Curb Appeal

Stumps are unsightly and can detract from your outdoor aesthetic. Stump grinding or removal gives your yard a more polished look and maximizes its usable space for landscaping, activities or other purposes.

Getting rid of a stump can make replanting, gardening and other yard activities easier and more fun. It can also improve the overall beauty of your property and increase its resale value, if you plan to sell your home in the future.

Stumps can become tripping and falling hazards for children and pets, and they prevent you from growing the plants and flowers you want in your yard. If you decide to hire a professional for stump grinding, be sure to consider the season and weather. A reputable company will assess conditions carefully to ensure a smooth, efficient process with the least amount of inconvenience.

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What Is Tree Felling?

Tree Felling is a highly dangerous and specialist skill that requires training, practice and equipment to perform properly. It can only be undertaken when a tree is unsafe or in a condition that poses a risk to people or property, or it is causing damage or nuisance. In the vast majority of cases, felling should be a last resort – there are many alternatives such as pollarding and pruning which can reduce weight or impact without killing the tree. There are also benefits to the environment and local economies from wood production (both for timber and other forest products) and sustainable woodland management, as well as mitigating the effects of climate change through carbon sequestration.

A professional will always try to fell a tree in a controlled manner, ensuring it lands where they want it to and not in any dangerous spots. This involves a detailed planning phase, taking into account the size and height of the tree as well as its natural tendencies to fall in particular directions. It will also consider the surrounding terrain and any other trees. The arborist will then start by making an angled cut on the side of the tree that they are felling, which will act as a hinge and encourage the tree to land in the desired direction.

The next step is to make a back cut, removing a section of the trunk behind the notch cut. This will prevent the notch from closing as the tree falls, which can potentially trap or ensnare people in its path. Finally, an undercut is made at the base of the tree, which will help to provide additional guidance and control as it falls. In some circumstances, a bore may be made in the directional notch to remove part of the hinge and avoid a ‘kickback’ effect when the saw is cutting.

When a tree is felled it can drop debris, such as dead branches or woodchips. This can be a significant hazard for anyone using a chainsaw and needs to be managed carefully. Dead and rotting tree stumps can also pose a risk, especially to children and pets playing in the garden. Tree roots can also be a problem, especially in older properties where they can cause subsidence and damage plumbing.

If you are considering felling a tree in your garden, it is worth contacting your local council for advice on whether a licence is required. You will only need a licence for work outside your property boundary, and this usually applies to trees with a diameter greater than 5m.

It is also important to clear the area around the base of the tree before starting to ensure that nobody will be harmed by the fall or projection of splinters. A good plan for the tree and its debris is also advisable, such as putting it out for collection as yard waste, selling it, or simply piling it up to rot. It is also advisable to get some assistance when felling a tree, or at least to be aware of who will be helping you in case something goes wrong.

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What Is Land Clearing?

Land Clearing, when done responsibly, not only provides space for agricultural fields, housing development, and other infrastructure, but also promotes environmental health by facilitating plant growth and revitalizing ecosystems. In urban contexts, proper clearing lays the foundation for vital public services like sanitation and drainage, mitigating flood risks and soil erosion, and improving accessibility in densely vegetated areas.

As part of the overall process, land clearing involves removing invasive plants, pruning trees and shrubs, and cutting out dead or overgrown vegetation. It may be performed manually or with machinery such as bulldozers, backhoes, and chainsaws, but whatever method is used, it must be done carefully to minimize damage and protect workers and the environment.

Once vegetation is cleared, it must be properly disposed of. Depending on the site and its purpose, it may be chipped and turned into mulch, burned in controlled fires, or hauled away for disposal. It is important to work with professionals that adhere to strict ecological standards and practice sustainable land clearing methods.

Before clearing can begin, a survey must be conducted to identify the types and density of vegetation on the property and any other potential obstacles. This allows for the development of a comprehensive clearing plan that will help ensure the success of the project. It is also a necessary step in ensuring that the land clearing project complies with local environmental and zoning regulations, as many jurisdictions have laws governing how land can be used and by whom.

Professional land clearing contractors use advanced equipment to minimize the impact on the environment. They employ techniques that prevent soil erosion and improve water quality, which is especially important in agricultural contexts where heavy rains can lead to flooding and sedimentation. In addition, they understand the importance of preserving wildlife habitats and are trained to respect and manage sensitive ecosystems.

Once clearing is completed, a final inspection is conducted to ensure the site is ready for its intended use. This includes checking that debris has been removed appropriately, that grading has been done correctly, and that erosion control measures have been implemented. Lastly, the land is inspected to make sure it is free of any roots or branches that might cause damage to future construction or agriculture. If everything is in order, the permit or clearance is issued and work can begin.

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The Importance of Tree Care

Trees provide valuable benefits for our homes, landscapes and the environment. They increase property value, improve air quality, lower energy costs, make people feel 7 years younger and decrease crime. However, to continue providing these services, trees must be maintained properly.

During the transition from winter to spring, many homeowners focus on pruning and mulching their landscape shrubs and woody plants. However, it is important to keep in mind that the roots of these plants also need a chance to develop and expand.

A well-developed root system helps a tree resist drought and other environmental stressors and promotes the formation of healthy bark. It is essential to monitor the condition of your tree’s roots on a regular basis to detect any damage or root diseases that may be occurring, as they are more difficult to treat once they become established.

The best way to avoid root disease is to maintain a healthy and vigorous plant with optimal soil conditions that are adequately conditioned with adequate water and oxygen. Proper planting and spacing are also crucial in minimizing root problems.

In addition, avoiding over-watering and over-fertilizing is vital to proper tree growth and health. It is also beneficial to surround the base of your trees with a layer of mulch that is 2 to 3 inches thick, but be careful not to pile mulch too high, as this can create a physical barrier to root development and inhibit the flow of water and nutrients.

Trees, like all living things, are susceptible to diseases and insects. It is important to proactively look for any signs of trouble, such as discolored leaves, cankers and holes in the bark, on a regular basis, as these can be early indicators of an insect infestation or disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to the death of the plant.

If you notice any unusual signs of pests or disease on your trees or shrubs, it is best to consult an ISA Certified Arborist for a complete inspection of the property. They can spot red flags that you might not be able to see, and can recommend the most effective treatment methods to help your plants recover.

Another important component of Tree Care is identifying and treating any pests or diseases in their early stages, as these can be very costly to manage and often require the removal of the affected plant or entire tree. An ISA Certified Arborist can identify these issues, determine the appropriate course of action and implement the most effective treatment methods for your landscape.

Many Northeast Ohio homeowners depend on the beauty of trees to accent their properties, but this splendor does not come without maintenance. It is important to recognize that a tree’s appearance can be negatively impacted by incorrect pruning techniques, unnecessary staking and other missteps, especially during the fall season when new trees are planted. Luckily, these mistakes are easy to avoid when you know the right techniques.

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