Tree Trimming Tips

Tree Trimming is a necessary part of regular landscape maintenance. It can be done for a variety of reasons, including improving structure and safety, reducing size, opening up vistas and repairing storm damage. Good pruning techniques focus on removing diseased, damaged or dead branches, rubbing or crossing branches, suckers and water sprouts, branch stubs and other objectionable growth. It also removes limbs that detract from the beauty of the tree and opens the canopy to allow more light and air to reach the ground.

Whenever possible, avoid cutting back to the same point on the branch. This can cause a stub that is susceptible to insect infestation, fungal infections and decay, and reduces the strength of the remaining branch. If a branch must be cut back to a stub, make the cut on the underside of the branch at about 8-12 inches from the branch collar. This will promote the formation of a callus, which will protect the cut and reduce the risk of infection.

A stub should never be left more than 2 inches in length, and it is important to maintain an even spread of lateral branches throughout the crown of the tree. Avoid “heading” cuts (also known as topping) on trees over one year old, as this practice disfigures the shape of the tree, stimulates unwanted water sprouts and sucker growth, weakens the structure of the tree, and exposes large areas of bare wood to pests and diseases.

The most common mistakes are made when trimming large tress. People often raise the canopy too high by removing large lower branches, and they leave unsightly, “broccoli” shaped trees that are more likely to be torn apart in a storm. Occasionally, it is necessary to reduce the height of a tree for clearance around buildings or traffic areas, but this should only be done by a professional with extensive experience.

Thinning is a type of pruning that reduces a tree’s overall size by removing the ends of branches and allowing the resulting lateral branches to grow without being constrained by the remaining branches. It is best done in the winter or early spring, when the tree is dormant, to minimize stress.

Pruning can be a complex task, and not all pruning jobs are the same. It is important to use the proper tools and technique, and to understand the long-term effects of each cut. Using the right tools ensures that clean, unblemished cuts are made, which in turn increases the chance of successful healing and prevents damage to the tree. In some cases, a tree may be too damaged to be saved, and should be removed. This is a decision that should be made by an experienced, professional arborist after a thorough inspection. In some cases, the best course of action is to replace the tree with a species that is better suited for its site and environment.

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