Tree Trimming 101

Tree Trimming is a regular process of pruning and shaping trees and shrubs to enhance the landscape and help them live a longer life. This is an essential maintenance task for all ornamental and fruit trees as well as almost all small and mid-sized evergreens and deciduous trees. When performed correctly, it boosts flower production and optimizes fruit yields. However, when done incorrectly, it stunts plant growth and opens the plant up to disease and pests.

The most common reason for pruning is improving structure and safety, but it can also be to control size and to open up vistas, repair damage from storms, and provide clearance for structures or traffic. Proper pruning can also encourage proper branch development, increase energy efficiency and improve landscape beauty.

There are three main types of pruning: crown thinning, crown raising, and crown cleaning. Crown thinning involves removing branches that are overtaking the trunk of the tree. It can be done to all or selected branches of a single tree or across an entire canopy, but it is most often conducted on older, larger shade trees that have become full and crowded. Thinning increases sunlight penetration to the interior of a canopy, improves air circulation and can decrease stress from winds, snow or ice on selected limbs.

When to Prune

Pruning should be done regularly, starting when a tree is young. Young trees require frequent pruning sessions to establish their structure and overall canopy shape. This can range from annual pruning for some species to every 2 to 3 years for mature evergreens and deciduous trees. Whenever possible, try to avoid cutting more than one-fourth of a tree’s branches at any given time.

Before you begin any trimming, prepare the work area by removing branches, debris and other obstructions from the ground and within the crown of the tree. This will allow you to get close to the tree without getting entangled or becoming trapped. Also, remove any branches that are growing too close to a building or power line.

When you begin your pruning, start by identifying the major branches of the tree. These are usually the largest and most visible branches. Identifying these will help you to plan where to make your pruning cuts. The next step is to remove dead or dying branches from the tree, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing together. This will prevent future problems with limbs that rub against each other or rub against buildings or cars.

Also, remove any limbs that are damaged or diseased. This will help to minimize the spread of disease to healthy limbs and to reduce the likelihood of damage during a storm. Lastly, remove any suckers that are growing from rootstock or water sprouts from limbs.

When you finish your pruning, it is important to clean up after yourself and to dispose of the cut limbs properly. Be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection.

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