3 Tree Pruning Mistakes That Cause More Harm Than Good

tree pruning mistakesYou may be tempted to trim the tree in your yard. This seems like a fairly straightforward DIY task. It doesn’t seem overly complex as long as you have a sturdy saw, sheers, and decent upper body strength. However, tree trimming isn’t as simple as you may think. If you trim your own tree, you may be making these three tree pruning mistakes without even realizing it.

1. Incorrect Timing

You shouldn’t prune most tree species in the fall since this is when fungi spread their spores. Improper pruning can leave “wounds” that create an opening for fungus to enter and cause decay and disease.

There are other factors that dictate the timing, such as tree species and reason for pruning. If you want the tree to grow new branches for spring, for instance, then it wouldn’t be advisable to prune in the summer or in the middle of spring.

2. Topping

Topping is the practice of removing the crown of the tree or entire branches from the top. Aside from creating a deformed appearance, topping also starves a tree, thereby severely compromising its health. A tree loses most of its leaves when topped. Without leaves, trees cannot absorb sunlight and produce sap for nourishment. This often leads to a decayed tree that eventually needs to be uprooted and hauled away by tree removal services.

3. Over Pruning

Our tree service never removes more than 15% to 20% of a tree’s foliage at a time. Removing too many branches causes the same dilemma as topping a tree. It leaves behind an inadequate amount of leaves. We understand that cutting a tree is a good exercise, but that is no reason to become prune-happy and snip away indiscriminately.

Avoid Tree Pruning Mistakes by Hiring a Pro

Our emergency tree service has often removed decaying trees that were once healthy. The unfortunate demise was often due to misguided DIY pruning practices by the homeowner or unlicensed arborist. Call Pro-Cut Tree Service to avoid the common tree pruning mistakes that can lead to a tree’s declining health.

Tree Pruning By Knowledgeable Arborists

Serving customers in Lake Stevens, Edmonds, Marysville, Mukilteo, Lynnwood, Everett, Snohomish and the surrounding area


Posted on May 10, 2020 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business