Many homeowners opt to trim and prune their own trees instead of hiring a tree removal or landscaping company to do it for them. If you too will opt to trim and prune your trees, be aware of the mistakes others often make so you can get your trees looking neat while keeping them healthy.
Topping Your Tree
Many people think cutting the top off their tree will solve several of their problems but in reality, it’s one of the worst things you can do for your tree. Not only will it not solve the current issues, but it will also create new issues in addition to the old ones. Many people do this because the tree is too big but this will likely cause the tree to grow bigger and fuller.
Cutting From the Wrong Places
The reason most homeowners leave tree pruning and trimming to the professionals is because these employees are trained professionals who are tree experts. Knowing how trees live, grow, and prosper is essential to also know what not to do. Cutting a tree in the wrong spot can result in disease and the attraction of insects who will harm your trees. For example, shoots should be pruned regularly while the collar of a tree branch should never be cut.
Pruning at the Wrong Time of Year
Many homeowners will wait to prune their trees until they can’t wait any longer. When this happens, it is likely it will not be the right season to prune and pruning in the offseason can cause issues for your trees. Premature pruning will remove the buds on the tree’s branches that are necessary for the next season’s growth. It is best to prune your trees before the buds sprout in the early spring or wait until fall.
The best thing you can do for your trees is to hire a professional to be responsible for their well-being. The professionals at Elliott Tree are highly-experienced and knowledgeable in all trees found in New England. Contact us today for a free estimate on your next tree pruning or tree removal!
