24 APR 2021
While you get started on spring cleaning in your home, dont forget your yard and garden. Spring tree trimming is like spring cleaning for your landscape. Removing dead, dying, and diseased branches from trees and shrubs will improve their health and enhance the appearance of your property as well. But, before you go out and cut branches haphazardly, review this article brought to you by Sesmas Tree Service. We will go over some basic spring tree trimming tips to get you the best results. If you have any specific questions or concerns, or if you would like to hire an ISA-certified arborist, then call Sesmas Tree Service to get in touch with a live representative.
Why You Should Prune Trees
Left to their own, trees are capable of developing and growing just fine but if you want more than mediocrity then you will have to give the trees a helping hand. Wild trees grow disorderly, which is not a problem in the jungle or forest. But your trees in the yard can pose risks to nearby utility lines, structures, vehicles, and passersby. Tree trimming gets rid of risky branches as well as allow proper air flow and exposure to sunlight. Further, pruning diseased and dying branches prevents the spread of disease and redirects valuable resources to more productive parts of the tree. In short, you should trim and prune your trees for optimal growth and development as well as aesthetic appeal.
When Trim or Prune Your Trees
Though it depends on the species of your tree, the general rule of thumb is to trim or prune trees when they are dormant. This is usually in the months of winter. The reasoning behind this is that pruning trees can interfere in the growth of the tree if done during in the spring. Pruning or trimming when trees start blooming can stunt its growth. It is also risky to prune in the spring because this season is when insect infestations and diseases are common. Pruning wounds trees and leaves them vulnerable to such infections and infestations. Still, there are exceptions.
If tree branches are diseased or decaying, then it is okay, and even recommended, to safely prune them so long as you are careful and do not remove too many of the branches. We like to limit spring pruning to about ten percent of the trees branches. So, save this limit for the health of the tree. Your priority should be the health of the tree but a little bit of a haircut for aesthetics can be okay.
Trees You Can Prune in The Spring
Not all trees are the same. There are some species of trees that are okay to be pruned in the spring. These include maple trees, walnut trees, and birch trees, which can be pruned in late spring or early summer. Apricot trees, dogwood trees, flowering cherry trees, magnolia trees, and crabapple trees can also be pruned in the spring after they are done blooming.
Feel free to call Sesmas Tree Service if you have specific questions or concerns. We are also happy to schedule a flexible appointment with an ISA-certified arborist.
