6 Amazing Tips For Your Perfect Tree Pruning

Tree pruning is a vital part of tree care. It helps maintain the tree's health and appearance, reducing the risk of disease, storm damage, or other issues affecting trees' life expectancy and safety. Here are some tips for a smooth tree pruning session.

Always Use a Pruning Saw

It's essential to use a pruning saw when removing branches. Ensure you're using the right saw size for the branch diameter, and make two cuts. That is one on each side of the branch. It's mostly done close to where it connects with the tree trunk or main stem. This will help reduce stress in that area and prevent cracking once the branch is removed.

Prune Your Tree in the Winter or Early Spring

When possible, prune your tree in the winter or early spring. This will ensure less sap on the branches and fruit, reducing the risks of spreading insects or diseases. If you must prune during other seasons, try to do so before noon when it's warmest outside. Branches can be heavy when wet with rain or dew, making it more difficult to complete the task.

Remove Dead Branches

Dead branches can be hazardous to the tree's health and should be removed as soon as possible. They provide a space for disease or insects and have been known to cause structural damage on larger trees. Therefore, ensure you don't leave these branches on your tree. It will ensure the tree is as healthy, safe, and beautiful as possible.

Avoid Removing Too Much of the Tree's Canopy

When pruning, it's essential to avoid removing too much of the tree's canopy. That will allow light and air into your tree's branches to help prevent insect infestation or disease. Furthermore, this tree pruning will keep the tree's overall shape looking natural and attractive. Ensure you don't remove over one-third of the tree's canopy in a single pruning session.

Cut Back Any Branches That Rub Against Each Other

When you're pruning your tree, it's crucial to cut back any branches that rub against each other. It helps reduce the risk of disease and prevents some insects from making their way into the tree's canopy. It also ensures that your tree has plenty of airflow, which helps promote healthy roots! Additionally, it's vital to ensure the tree's branches aren't blocking any windows or walkways.

Cut Off Large Limbs From the Bottom Up

When you are tree pruning, it's crucial to cut off large limbs from the bottom up. This will help reduce the risks of branches or entire trees falling on people below them during a storm event. It also helps prevent undue stress and cracking in that area. When possible, ensure that your cuts are at the same angle as the branch you're cutting.