If you have dead branches or trees that are starting to look shrubby or overgrown, you may be tempted to head out and start pruning them into the perfect shape yourself on a sunny afternoon. But while you may achieve your short-term aesthetic goals, there’s a lot more to tree pruning than simply cutting the tree branches into the desired shape.
Tree Health
Anytime tree pruning is completed, your tree’s health is put at risk if careful precautions are not taken. When the tree pruning is done, how much of the tree is pruned, and how old the tree is at the time of the pruning all influence the future health of the tree. Tree pruning requires precision to ensure the branch collar isn’t cut, which gives the tree a much better chance of healing well after pruning.
Because of this, it’s always best to leave extensive pruning to a skilled pruning technician or arborist.
When to Prune
Tree pruning should occur when the tree is dormant, usually in winter. You should never prune your trees during the warm season, as insects can attack the opening in the tree’s bark and damage the tree’s health.
Similarly, you should never prune a tree that hasn’t fully established itself. Always wait at least a year after planting or transplanting a new tree before getting started with tree pruning.
How Much to Prune
Of course, pruning dead branches is always a good idea, even on newly planted trees, as this type of tree pruning can improve the tree’s health. However, be careful you don’t go overboard. Never prune 25 percent or more of the tree, as this can cause undue stress. Prune only what needs to be pruned, and consider spreading out pruning sessions, so you aren’t cutting too many branches all at once.
Time for Tree Pruning?
If you’re ready to get started, give us a call at Doss Tree Service today. With 10 years of experience in the landscaping and tree care industry, you can rest assured your trees will be properly pruned and can continue to grow, blossom, and shade your yard for years to come