What does tree trimming entail?

1. Removal of dead and damaged limbs
2. Gets rid of limbs that obstruct views, windows, etc.
3. Removes diseased and insect-infested limbs
4. Improves light penetration
5. Enhances the structure and form of the tree

How is trimming different from pruning?

Pruning is used mainly for trees and shrubs. On the other hand, trimming is generally done to hedges and shrubs. Pruning ensures the tree is free from dead, dying, or damaged branches while trimming takes care of overgrown bushes.

How often should I schedule tree trimming?

The specimen of the tree you have will determine how often you should trim it. In most cases, trimming is performed twice a year, while pruning can be done annually.

Why is tree trimming essential?

Tree trimming is critical for the overall state of your tree for three main reasons: aesthetic, health, and safety.

Aesthetic– You want to keep your tree looking good with proper trimming. Don’t change its shape to an unnatural one or over trim it because it can spell disaster.

Health– Not all diseased trees are a candidate for removal. Trimming can do miracles to your trees. By cutting away the affected limb or branch, you can save the health of the entire tree. This should be done correctly to ensure the best results.

Safety– A tree with dead and broken branches is a dangerous tree. These branches can fall anytime and cause damage to your property or even hurt anyone passing by. Limbs that are growing too close a power line should also be eliminated right away because it can cause a power outage or, worse, a fire.

What is the best time to perform tree trimming?

The best time to prune a tree is when it is in its dormant state. However, if the tree is hazardous, you shouldn’t wait for winter before pruning it. While you can prune a tree all year round, it is wiser and more practical to wait for its dormant season.

What are some helpful guidelines for trimming?

• Make sure you are aware of the size of the branch you are pruning. You should not remove a branch that is more than 5 cm in diameter unless your reason is valid. It is safe to get rid of a branch that’s five centimeters or less.
• Start them young because they are easier to manage that way. It also lowers the risk of scarring.
• Don’t leave a large stub and never hurt the branch collar.
• Only trim weak branches with V-shape and never the ones with U-shaped angles.

What are some helpful reminders for pruning?

Crown thinning: It doesn’t impact the overall shape of a tree and is done to keep branches evenly spaced.

Crown raising: This is typically done to provide clearance for vehicles and pedestrians. It is done by trimming branches at the lower portion of the tree.

Crown reduction: As much as possible, don’t perform this on your tree. It can cause the decline of your tree and its death.

How to trim properly?

• Look for the branch collar, which is typically at the base of the branch where it joins the trunk. Locate the branch ridge, which is on the upper part of the branch.
• Cut away from the branch bark ridge on a downward angle.
• Use the same approach when pruning dead and live branches.
• Use the three-cut method if the stem is too long.

Learn more