Tree Pruning

The most common way to perform regular maintenance on trees is by regular pruning. Trees that grow in the wild can do very well without much pruning, but trees in a landscape environment may require more attention due to their structural integrity or personal aesthetics. If pruned improperly, lasting damage can occur that may ultimately end in the death of a tree. That is why it is important to hire trained arborists who are experienced in pruning different species of trees. 
 
Reasons to Prune
If a branch is to be removed, it should not be removed unless there is a reason for it. Some reasons why you may consider pruning would be to remove dead branches or to improve the shape of the tree’s growth. It may also be time to prune in order to allow for more light and air to reach the growth beneath the tree or to reduce safety hazards. Routine thinning doesn’t always improve the health of the tree, so be sure that you are pruning for the right reasons.
 
When to Prune
For different types of pruning there are different times that are better for exposing the tree to the open wound caused by pruning. If you are pruning to remove weak or dead limbs, it is okay to prune at any time of year. However, as a general rule it is best to prune before the spring so that growth is maximized. Some tree diseases can be spread when pruning wounds are left open. During these active transmission periods, it is best to wait to prune. Our trained experts can help determine whether or not it is the correct time to prune.
 
Pruning Techniques
There are many different pruning techniques. Cleaning is a technique that removes dead, diseased and weak branches from a tree. Thinning is a process of selective branch removal that will improve the shape and light distribution within the branches of the tree. Raising is a technique that removes low branches in order to make way for buildings and automobiles or to generally reduce other hazardous risks. Reduction is the process of pruning that reduces the overall size of a tree and is typically used to make way for power lines.
 
Young Trees
Pruning is an important part of the development of younger trees so that they can grow into strong and healthy trees that will last a lifetime. Trees that are pruned well when they are young will require less and less pruning as they age. The tree can be trained to have the structure that you would like for it to grow into if you start the pruning process early and follow good pruning practices.