Follow these tree pruning tips to avoid costly mistakes!
The process of tree pruning is both an art and a science that should be adequately balanced to be appropriate. Unless you are an expert, you should leave this to a professional service that will ensure that your trees are healthy and strong. Here are some mistakes you should avoid.
Topping
With topping, someone will cut away a large section of the top of a tree’s crown, or all the leafing branches across the top half of the tree. This technique results in a tree that is not only much less attractive but has a severely weakened branch structure. It’s one of the most obvious mistakes and usually happens with trees that were too large for the spots in which they were planted.
Bad Timing
You should wait to prune your trees depending on the species and condition of the tree. Do some preliminary research on your tree before venturing to make any cuts. Unless you are an expert in the field, it’s best to consult a certified arborist about the tree’s condition. Bad timing could cause sun scalding, wounds, and severe damage.
Improper Cuts
One of the most common pruning mistakes that nonprofessionals make is cutting branches too close, or flush, to the main trunk. A necessary part of the branch, the collar, features specialized cells that the tree needs to heal from the cut. The collar presents itself as a small bump or swelled area where the branch meets the main trunk. Leaving that area exposed leaves the tree susceptible to disease.
Over Pruning
As a general rule, keep in mind that only about 15 to 20 percent of a tree’s foliage should be trimmed at one time. Removing more than that leaves the tree unable to provide enough nutrients for structural support and growth. People often over-trim trees in an attempt to promote grass growth below. If there are multiple trees in an area where you’re trying to promote grass growth, it’s a better practice to have them removed to allow in more light.
High Canopy
Be mindful of the height of a tree’s canopy. Some people choose to cut too many of the large lower branches from the tree to raise the canopy and grow more turf grass. However, the result of this technique, often called “broccoli trees,” are trees that cannot effectively provide enough nutrients for growth from photosynthesis and water delivery. It also shifts the balance of the tree, putting increased stress on the structure of the tree.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh and Middle River.
For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.