The new year is the perfect time to commit to properly caring for your trees. This includes the way you prune them. Proper trimming and pruning involve following the “less is more” rule. That, along with making correct cuts in the right location, ensures a strong, beautiful, and healthy tree. Here are some useful guidelines arborists follow while on the job.
General Guidelines
Arborists will tell you that you’ll want to prune your trees at the right time. For most species, this would be during late winter or early spring. This is their dormant season. Pruning at this time of year promotes vigorous growth during the spring season and lowers the risk of infestation or disease.
There are exceptions to this rule. Any dead, diseased, or damaged limbs and branches should be removed immediately, regardless of what time of year it is. Trees that flower in the spring need to be pruned right after they bloom.
Arborists will always prune your trees with safety in mind first, then the tree’s health, and finally its aesthetics. They never remove more than 20 to 25% of your tree’s total live crown.
Furthermore, arborists possess the proper training and experience to know which tools are right for the job. They will ensure they are clean to prevent disease spread, sharp, and the appropriate size for the branch. For example, they will use hand pruners, as they are perfect for removing small branches, while they’ll use loppers or saws for bigger branches.
Proper Techniques
For the best results, arborists will make the cuts in the right spot. This allows the wound to seal correctly. They will begin by finding the branch collar. This is the swollen area where the branch connects to the trunk or a large limb. They will cut just outside of the branch collar and will be careful not to cut into it or leave a long stub behind. Making these cuts at an angle sloping away from the stem will keep water from collecting on the wound.
Use the Three-Cut Method
If the branches to be removed are over two inches in diameter, arborists will use the three-cut method to keep from damaging the trunk’s bark. They will start with a shallow cut on the underside of your branch. This cut will be six to 12 inches from the branch collar. Cut one-third of the way through. Your second cut will be from the top of the branch, one to two inches further out from your first cut. Cut all the way through, and allow the branch to fall. Finally, remove the remaining stub by cutting just outside of the branch collar.
Since this is very detailed work, it’s always best to seek the help of an expert. Call Charleston Stump Stompers in Charleston, SC to schedule professional tree trimming and pruning service this new year.
