Why Tree Pruning Can Be a Lifesaver

Properly caring for trees takes quite a bit of time and often the help of a knowledgeable professional—but out of all the tree care items on the list, pruning is one of the most important. In fact, failing to prune trees can actually kill them in some scenarios.

Keep reading to learn how tree pruning works and why they need to be pruned.

Why do trees need to be pruned?

There are a few reasons trees should be pruned, and it’s always better if it’s done sooner rather than later. Here are the main reasons to prune your trees:

• Overall tree health: Diseased or pest-infested branches should be removed as soon as possible to prevent those diseases or pests from spreading to other branches or to the tree trunk itself. Pruning also helps with tree health by reducing any rubbing that makes a tree less structurally sound.
• Growth rate: It sounds counterintuitive, but cutting back a tree branch actually stimulates new growth. If you want your tree branches to grow faster and stronger, pruning is a must.
• Shape: Trees can grow out of balance over the years, which poses safety issues and can make a tree less structurally secure. The only way to correct a misshapen tree is pruning back the necessary branches.
• Property protection: Pruning old or dying branches is the best way to prevent them from falling down during a heavy storm. Just a few hours of work pruning trees can prevent thousands of dollars in property damage.

How does tree pruning work?

Now that we’ve covered why pruning is essential, it’d be helpful to understand how it’s done and to know that pruning involves more than just hacking off a branch with a sharp saw.

Start by moving 18 inches up from the underside of the branch you’re removing, and cut about halfway through the branch. Then move to the topside of the branch, and cut down until the branch breaks free. Finally, locate the branch collar (i.e., the area of swelling and rougher bark near the base of the branch), and make a 45-degree cut on the base of the branch to help form a callus.

When is the best time of year for pruning?

Unlike some other types of tree maintenance, there’s never a bad time of year for tree pruning. That said, most arborists recommend pruning during dormancy in mid to late winter to encourage new growth as soon as the weather warms up in the spring. Additionally, pruning after all the leaves have fallen off makes it an easier job.

Don’t prune your trees by yourself

Pruning can seem like an easy task that anyone can do—but don’t try it yourself! Improper pruning can do more harm than good, and it may even end up killing your tree. Instead, hire our pros at Rand Hill Lawns, Inc. We have over 35 years of industry experience, so you can trust that your trees are in good hands with us. Contact our team today to get an estimate or to learn more about why trees need to be pruned.

Categorised in: Tree Pruning