Tree Pruning is the most common tree maintenance procedure.
Pruning is the removal of branches live or dead—trimming.
Q: Why is pruning necessary or good to consider?
Pruning is the removal of dead branches that populate the tree’s crown and inhibit new growth. These really should be removed because they weigh the tree down, making it unstable, the dead wood may break off and be hazardous to people or property when it falls. Deadwood in trees can reduce the tree’s life or can potentially become detrimental to the health of the tree, for instance deadwood invites infestation. So pruning in this case can help prevent some real hazards.
It may also involve the cutting / removal of live branches, that may be crossed or be crowding the crown of the tree. Pruning these live limbs and or branches helps to promote growth in some species of trees Conversely, pruning can be a process used to slow the growth in other kinds of trees. Pruning live branches can be done to reduce the weight of heavy limbs. It is another proactive safety measure, especially in preparation for winter. Ice can form, and weigh down the trees precariously. Proper, careful, and artistic trimming can reduce wind resistance. This is a good safeguard during wind and rain storms when your trees have to be able to swing with the weather and not against it. Trimming increases light penetration, for those folks who pride themselves in a great lawn.
So, Pruning is both corrective and preventative. But for either reason we prune, it’s an aesthetic improvement. Like when we get a haircut. The property always gets a nice face-lift after a gingerly, artistically, and professionally completed pruning. Especially with Greg’s supervision, direction, and handiwork.
Q: When is the best time to prune?
All year round, really. Pruning can be done anytime of the year, especially if handled by someone who knows trees, species by species, and knows how to approach each one specifically. It really depends on results desired and the type of tree.
Fruit trees, are best pruned in winter for instance, while non-fruit bearing trees can be pruned anytime. Think about early spring: just before time of rapid growth. Or just after flowering after spring. Fall is good too, after the heavy heat. Results: less stress on tree.
