Learn a few tree pruning mistakes to avoid. To ensure a professional, safe pruning job, schedule tree services in New Orleans, LA.
Making Flush Cuts With the Trunk
Pruning isn’t quite as simple as chopping off branches wherever you can reach. You need to be strategic about the angle and location of the cuts you make, as improper pruning can create unnecessary wounds or lead to structural weakness.
For example, cutting branches right up against the trunk, in an area known as the branch collar, can harm the tree’s natural defense mechanisms. Instead, cut at least a few inches away from the trunk.
Pruning Too Much at One Time
Over-pruning is the process of removing too much canopy from a tree in one session. This can inhibit a tree’s ability to recover through photosynthesis. The tree will have too many wounds to heal at one time, which could weaken its natural defenses and invite diseases and pests as well.
Instead, a good rule of thumb is to only remove a maximum of 25% of the tree canopy in a single season. If you want to remove more than this, contact a licensed arborist for guidance.
Taking the Top Off a Tree
Topping trees, or removing the top portion to reduce height, can seriously impact their health and longevity. Many trees cannot recover from topping because they are left extremely vulnerable to fungi, insects, and storm damage.
If a tree on your property is too tall, talk to an arborist about your options. Removing select branches that are extending over your home might be a good compromise to avoid injuring the tree.
Pruning During the Wrong Season
The time of year in which you prune a tree can also impact its ability to recover. One of the more common tree pruning mistakes is pruning during the active growing season. While you may initially believe that pruning during the spring or summer allows for faster wound healing, this may not be true.
Removing too much of the tree’s canopy in the active growing season can lead it to starve, as it will not have as many leaves to undergo photosynthesis. In New Orleans, the best time to prune a tree is generally late winter, though this can vary depending on the species and a range of other factors.
Turn to Professionals for Expert Pruning Services
Avoiding these tree pruning mistakes can be challenging if you don’t have the right tools, experience, or knowledge. To ensure the best outcomes, enlist licensed arborists to handle tree pruning for you.
At Benton Tree Service, we understand how local pest infestations and climate impact pruning schedules. Schedule professional pruning services with our team today by calling 504-896-0820, then explore the advantages of tree trimming.