The Importance of Tree Trimming

Tree trimming involves removing infected or damaged branches in a skillful way to improve the overall health and growth capabilities of a tree. It also helps improve the appearance of a landscape. It differs from shrub pruning, which is generally meant to merely clean things up.

A skilled tree trimmer is a professional who understands that pruning is more than just “cleaning up.” This is because trees are living organisms and each cut has long-term consequences. In addition, each tree has unique needs that are dictated by its environment and history. An improper trim can damage the structure of a tree and even cause safety issues. Therefore, it is important that all pruning be performed by a certified arborist.

Branches that rub against each other during movement or are crossing should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the creation of wounds that cannot heal or serve as entry points for plant diseases. Crossed branches can also weaken a tree by reducing the amount of sunlight and air that reaches other branches.

It is essential that a tree’s crown be evenly balanced. To do this, it is necessary to remove the inward-growing branches, branches that obstruct traffic or buildings, and those with narrow V-shaped angles where they attach to the trunk. It is also recommended that any branch growing at a different angle to the rest of the canopy be thinned out to increase light penetration.

Properly thinning a tree reduces the weight of branches and stems, which in turn can minimize damage from storms and winds. When thinning, the cut should be made as close to the trunk as possible without damaging the bark. Also, a general rule of thumb is that the thinning cut should be made at least 1/3 the size of the branch that it is removing.

Another purpose of thinning is to limit a tree’s height. This can be done by removing terminal or leader branches. However, it is crucial that the branch that a leader is trimmed back to is large enough to resume its hormonal role for that portion of the tree’s canopy.

The last reason for thinning a tree is to provide clearance for driveways, sidewalks, and streets. This is often achieved by removing the lower branches of a tree or reducing their length. In general, the lowest branches should be no more than 6 to 10 ft from the ground. If a tree has more than this, it may be subject to damage from vehicles or storms and should be considered for removal.

from TLC Trees and Co https://ift.tt/slW3gfa