Tips On Tree Pruning

Tips on Tree Pruning beautiful trees in the morningKeys To Good Tree Pruning

Tree trimming and pruning is a crucial step towards a thriving landscape. In order to ensure the long-term health and safety of your trees, and your property, you’ll want to have a regular tree maintenance schedule.

Why Tree Pruning Is Important

Pruning has a wide range of benefits for your trees. For starters, it can help to keep the people interacting around the tree safe. By removing dangerous limbs you’ll also keep the tree from interfering with nearby roofs and power lines.

Tree pruning can also stimulate the tree to grow in certain ways to avoid obstacles, and maintain the structural integrity. Keeping the trees on your property healthy will ensure a viable landscape in the long-term and keep your family and home safe.

Tips On Tree Pruning

By using proper tree trimming techniques you’ll be able to ensure the tree’s health, while putting safety first. It’s always recommended to work with a tree service professional when conducting any trimming or pruning.

1. Trim During Dormancy

You can technically prune a tree during any time of year, however it’s best to prune and trim during the dormant season when the tree isn’t dedicating all of its resources to new growth. This will enable the tree to heal much faster and recover any wounds that occur throughout the pruning process.

2. Consider Branch Size

It’s a good idea to trim branches that have a smaller diameter, as opposed to larger branches. Unless of course those branches become diseased, or are causing a hazardous situation.

3. Keep The Crown Ratio In Mind

If you do need to thin out or remove a portion of the crown make sure you still leave a ratio of two-thirds living crown to total tree height. This will help to keep the tree thriving and healthy for the long-term.

4. Trim Younger Trees

It’s best to prune branches when they’re young. Branches at this point will be much easier to manage and won’t leave as many scars on the trunk.

5. Leave The Correct Branch Length

When pruning you’ll want to leave the correct branch length leftover. Trimming branches too long will leave a long branch stub, while trimming too short could potentially remove the branch collar.

Effective Pruning For Local Michigan Tree Species

Michigan has several different tree species which all require different styles of pruning, below you’ll find general information regarding the three most common types of trees.

1. Shade Trees

Shade trees are also referred to as deciduous trees. These types of tree lose their leaves and go through a dormant period every year in response to changes in weather. The best time of year to prune these trees is during their dormant period.

2. Fruit Trees

Fruit trees can be a great addition to any landscape, and can provide a fruitful bounty every single year. However, these trees are very prone to being overgrown and scraggly if not properly pruned every year.

3. Evergreen Trees

Unlike shade trees evergreen trees don’t need to be trimmed as readily. They are very low-maintenance and can generally take care of themselves. That being said, an occasional trim can tidy up these trees and improve their appearance.

When you’re considering a trim make sure you always consult with a professional. Especially, when dealing with limbs that pose a danger to your home, or overhead power lines.

Get more tips on tree pruning from the team at Ayles Tree Service today at 517-484-8381 to ensure your trees are trimmed effectively and keep the health and safety of your landscape intact.