While your tree needs pruning to thrive, some over-pruning consequences can be severe. Luckily, you don’t have to let improper tree pruning put your tree’s health in jeopardy!
With an arborist’s various tree services in Jacksonville, FL, you have professional insight into which pruning mistakes to avoid, including the five mentioned below.
1. Pruning in the Wrong Place
Did you know that making cuts in the wrong place on the branch can be detrimental? For example, cutting the branch too close to the trunk may leave the tree with a spot that cannot heal properly. Cutting the branch too far away from the trunk and leaving a significant stub is also problematic.
Arborists carefully cut in the correct location along the branch, just next to the branch collar, to give the tree the best chance at healing properly.
2. Removing Too Much of the Tree
Cutting too much of the tree at one time is one of the most dangerous mistakes when pruning any type of tree. Removing too much of the tree’s crown or topping it to take its height down could kill it.
An arborist will carefully inspect the tree and determine what areas need pruning. If it’s too tall or growing near power lines, the arborist may recommend cutting it over two or three growing seasons. Cutting no more than 30% of the branches each year is safer for your tree.
3. Pruning at the Wrong Time
When maintaining trees, removing branches and limbs at the right time of the year is important. Pruning too early in the fall might cause sprouts that won’t survive the winter. Trimming during summer might expose the tree to insects that are more active during the warm weather.
Most arborists will suggest pruning during winter. However, a tree inspection can determine the best time for your tree species.
4. Cutting With Dull Tools
Using poor-quality tools to prune your trees can damage the tree and place its health in jeopardy. If the cutting tools have dull blades, they might tear the branch and bark instead of cutting them cleanly. A ragged wound could leave the tree unable to heal itself.
Larger limbs need chainsaws and other power tools to make a clean cut. Smaller-diameter branches are sometimes fine with manual lopping tools if you get the technique right.
5. Dropping Cut Branches Haphazardly
When cutting large limbs in the upper section of the tree, you must control the fall. If the limb falls haphazardly, it could damage other branches on the way to the ground, leaving the tree’s health in jeopardy.
Arborists often use ropes and cables to control falling branches.
Trust Eagerton Tree Service, LLC. for Proper Tree Pruning Help in Jacksonville, Florida
Trying to trim trees yourself could lead to pruning mistakes and significant tree damage. Why not avoid harmful trimming practices by hiring Eagerton Tree Service, LLC? We also offer resources, like this tree trimming vs. pruning guide that explains why tree health and pruning are so closely related.
To request a free estimate for our pruning services, contact us today at (904) 823-3090!
