Common Mistakes When Trimming Trees

Trimming trees is both a science and an art. It is important to understand the principles of pruning to reduce damage and ensure that your tree stays healthy. Many homeowners look for local tree removing services after incorrectly trimming their trees on their property. Poor trimming and pruning practices can disfigure, damage, and even kill trees. To avoid the after-effects of poor trimming and pruning, here are common mistakes homeowners make when trimming trees.

Topping

Topping refers to cutting the top off of a tree, essentially cutting a tree’s trunk to then reduce the overall height of the tree. By topping a tree, you could cause undue stress to the tree as well as unbalance the structure of the tree, making it more likely to fall down in the future. Topping also weakens the structure of the branches of the tree which will make the tree more hazardous in the long run. If you believe that you overcut your tree by topping, tree removing services may be necessary.

Flushing

Cuts made extremely close to the trunk or main branch, known as flush cuts, can damage the tree creating openings for pest invasion. Flush cuts tend to result in an uneven thickness of bark and may lead to callus formation. When flush cuts are made, trunk tissue is removed, exposing the tree to potential pest infestation, diseases, and fungi. Flush cuts can also create a rotten hole on the side of the trunk, which may result in the need for tree removing services.

Improper Pruning

Improperly pruning or trimming your tree can cause irreversible damage to the tree, creating the need for tree removing services. A common mistake when pruning trees is removing too many canopy leaves. When too many canopy leaves are removed, the tree becomes unable to produce enough food, pass on nutrients, and fail to support itself structurally. Proper pruning techniques cut down on the amount of damage to the tree and allows the tree to heal. If you feel that you have over-pruned your tree, contact your local tree removing services to come take a look.

Using Dull Tools

Using dull tools when trimming and pruning trees can create rough or improper cuts that may rip or shred the bark, thus causing larger wounds. These large wounds in the trees can attract insects, which may cause diseases to the tree. In the case that you notice dead spots where you’ve previously trimmed your trees with dull tools, you may be in need of tree removing services. When trimming or pruning your trees, make sure to use well-sharpened and sterile shears to avoid damage to your tree and ensure it stays healthy.

Pruning At The Wrong Time

Just like using dull tools, pruning your tree at the wrong time can cause irreversible damage. When certain types of insects are active, cuts on trees could attract them and cause diseases to the tree. Trimming at the wrong time can also affect sprouting and fruit production. Trees that are non-blooming should be pruned in late winter while blooming trees should be pruned in the spring before they bloom. Any dead branches on the tree can be removed at any time of the year.

Let Us Help!

LTRC-Tree Specialists can help you with your tree trimming and pruning needs, as well as tree planting and tree removing services. Our team is committed to helping our clients with their tree issues and land maintenance needs. Give us a call at (404) 977-4528 or visit our website to get a free estimate or to learn more about our services.