Trimming your trees not only keeps them tidy and aesthetically pleasing but also removes branches that are diseased, damaged, or growing so thickly that they rub against each other or impede the circulation of air around the branches. With that said, safety needs to be a concern if you’re trimming an old or large tree.
Some people see no real difference between trimming and pruning. Others believe pruning is more extensive than pruning as it removes dead, injured, or diseased limbs. Trimming is basically tidying up the tree by removing excess branches. Whether pruning or trimming, here are some things to consider.
Make Sure Tools Are Clean and Sharp
Few things are more dangerous to you and even your tree than the dull blade of a pruner. Dull blades don’t deliver clean cuts but crush branches, which leaves them vulnerable to pests and diseases. Make sure that the blades on your equipment are both sharp and clean. Some arborists recommend dipping the blades of your trimmer or pruner in a solution of bleach and water between trimming different trees or shrubs. This cleansing prevents the blades from spreading disease from one tree to another.
Do Only What Is Doable
It’s a good idea to get in touch with an arborist if you’re not sure if you can trim your tree in a safe way. You might want to leave the job to a pro if your tree is old, if it is old and has lots of dead limbs, or if it has large branches and limbs too close to power lines or structures.
Know the Best Time to Trim
Though it may be spring, the best time of the year to prune is during the late fall or winter. This is when the tree is likely to be dormant and, of course, deciduous trees have shed their leaves. The loss of leaves allows you to see the branches clearly. When it comes to evergreen trees, arborists recommend they be trimmed or pruned later in the winter. However, if you notice a sick or dead branch on a tree, feel free to take it off any time of the year.
Cut Large Branches Properly
Large branches can be dangerous to cut for both you and your tree. A heavy limb that’s cut in one piece can fall in an uncontrolled way. It can rip the bark down the tree’s trunk and injure it. It can also fall on you.
Get In Touch With Our Arborists for Trimming Tips
Trimming and pruning your trees keeps them both healthy and beautiful. If you need more tips about trimming and pruning your trees, or if you need a professional to do it, get in touch with our arborists at Adrian’s Tree Service in Walled Lake, Michigan.
