Tree Trimming & Pruning Mistakes to Avoid

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Hugh Reinhardt

Great job they removed a big tree stump on our property with no problem and at a better price than the others guys wanted to charge us. Driscoll Tree Service team was on time and had the right equipment and got right to work.

John Miller

It took a while for the weather to cooperate, but when the time came, all went well with excellent results. The crew removed a large water oak and a small trash tree. They worked well together and when finished, the job site was cleaned up nicely. They were friendly and informative. Neighbors were also impressed. I highly recommend Driscoll Tree Service.

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Tree Trimming & Pruning Mistakes to Avoid

Do you have trees on your property that seem in bad condition due to improper tree trimming techniques? This is a common problem that most people make, compromising the health and well-being of their trees. Luckily, the professionals of Driscoll Tree Service can assess and evaluate the damage before recommending the best solution. Maybe you decided to turn it into a DIY project to cut costs and cause more damage due to a lack of specialized tools and skills.

Tree pruning and trimming are crucial aspects of maintenance, and when done incorrectly, they can cause unimaginable damage, affecting the overall health of your trees. A tree care company has arborists who can handle maintenance with the utmost professionalism, alleviating the risk of rookie mistakes. However, if you prefer a more hands-on approach to tree care, here are some common mistakes you should avoid.

Trimming Any Branch

A tree with overgrown foliage is a good candidate for pruning, but you must pick out specific branches rather than aimlessly cutting down limbs. However, even with standard industry tools, there’s a science behind tree trimming and pruning. Conduct a thorough assessment to identify damaged, dying, or dead branches to ensure the remaining foliage is healthy and thriving. Before proceeding with maintenance, it is vital to consult an arborist to ensure you make the right decision on choosing branches to trim.

We can help you locate the branch, trim it properly at an appropriate angle, and choose the tools needed, among other aspects that impact tree growth and development. Most people accidentally harm the trees by failing to consider these factors, leading to severe damage and death. Improper trimming also leaves the tree vulnerable to diseases and infections.

Over Trimming

Tree pruning aims to cut 5 to 10% of foliage-producing branches. If you or an unskilled worker go beyond the recommended limit, it can seriously deter the tree’s ability to grow, absorb sunlight, heal, and produce food. It can also result in branch or limb death, posing a dangerous and costly hazard. A damaged or dead branch can fall anytime, damaging anything on its path, from utility lines, houses, cars, or nearby structures. The most effective and efficient solution to this problem is hiring a tree service to do all the heavy lifting, ensuring only the damaged limbs are cut.

Tree Topping

This is a standard method used by inexperienced individuals, causing harm to trees. The technique is frowned upon by tree care experts because it entails indiscriminately removing branches from the crown, which leave stubby branches. When limbs are cut near lateral systems or without regard to tree health, it promotes decay and death. The reality is that there’s a difference between crown reduction and tree topping, and we can help you determine the care needed depending on the cause and severity of the damage.

We understand that tree care and maintenance are complex for those who lack experience and skills. Contact us at Driscoll Tree Service, schedule a consultation with our tree professionals, and enjoy quality services at competitive rates.