Tree trimming is a vital element in promoting the health and beauty of your landscape. This process involves removing dead or damaged branches, preventing overgrowth, and improving air circulation. It also helps to promote the growth of new, healthy branches.
However, if done incorrectly, this process can cause significant damage to the tree and can even lead to its death. For this reason, it is important to use proper pruning techniques and follow best practices when undergoing this procedure.
A good time to trim your trees is in late summer. This is because the tree has absorbed all of its nutrients for the season and will need to conserve these resources for the winter. Additionally, this is when the leaves start to fall off and the bare branches will be more visible.
When you are ready to begin the Tree Pruning process, it is important to use sharp tools that will not cause excessive bark damage. This will help to ensure that the wounds heal properly and prevent pest infestations. It is also important to always make sure that you are using a ladder when pruning taller trees. Lastly, it is important to always wear proper safety gear.
To determine how high to prune a particular branch, you can use the “boy scout method.” To do this, hold your thumb vertically against the sky and place an object such as a person or a plant on the tip of your thumb. The distance from this object to the ground is the height of the branch you need to cut. This is a quick and easy way to measure the height of your branches and will save you a lot of time when compared to the old method of measuring with a tape measure.
Once you have determined how high to prune a particular branch, it is important to make clean cuts. When trimming larger branches, you should always use the three-cut method. This will help to prevent tearing of the bark and will encourage proper callus growth. The first cut should be made on the underside of the branch, followed by a top cut slightly further out and then a final cut just outside of the branch collar.
In addition to removing dead or damaged branches, it is important to prune away any branches that rub against one another or cross over each other. These overlapping branches can create wounds that do not heal well and will weaken the overall structure of the tree. Additionally, they can provide entry points for pests and diseases.
It is also a good idea to remove any suckers or water sprouts that develop at the base of the trunk. These weak, weedy-looking growths steal energy from the main branches of the tree and should be removed as soon as they appear. This will help to reduce the risk of rot and other diseases in the future.
North Bay Tree Company
41 Lakeshore Dr.
North Bay, Ontario P1A 2A1