Trimming Tips and Techniques

Tree trimming or pruning is a technic that requires both skill and knowledge for the desired results. Some of the reasons for trimming include; maintaining a tree’s shape and appearance, human safety and saving an infected tree by strategically pruning all limbs and branches affected by diseases. Pruning tools include; secateurs for young branches vines and flowers, loppers for branches up to 3 inches thick, pruning saws for branches up to 5 inches thick’ hedge shears for hedges and pole pruners for dead wood. Before embarking on the trimming process, it’s essential that one understands the vital tips for proper pruning.

General tips include;

• Size of the branch- Pruning should only be done if the branch size is less than 10 centimeters. If a branch exceeds 10 centimeters, do so if you really have a good reason but remember it might interfere with the growth of the whole tree.
• Dormant season- It is advisable to trim a tree during the summer and spring season when little growth is taking place.
• Kind of branches- Only prune weak and preferably V-shaped branches and retain U-shaped strong branches which are depended upon by the entire tree for balance and photosynthesis.
• Prune away young branches which are much easier to maintain as compared to the fully grown.
• Try to evenly prune lateral branches at the crown for a better appearance, particularly on young trees.

Pruning can further be subdivided into crown thinning, crown raising and crown reduction. Crown thinning is the reduction of the number of lateral branches by pruning away those that cross each other. Crown raising is achieved by trimming the lower branches for various reasons such as providing clearance to pedestrians while crown reduction simply means reducing the size of a tree’s crown.
 
Trimming Technique

• Identify branch collar located at the bottom base of the stem
• Cut down, outside and away from both the branch bark ridge so as not to interfere with the branch collar
• Do so for both dead and living branches.

Tree Trimming Cost

For an attractive landscape, one should consider tree trimming. Trimming cost depends on; the kind of trees or shrubs, tree service required and the kind of location (Residential or Business). This can range from $10 to $30 per tree or branch. Knowing tree trimming basics can help one handle the process without necessarily employing the experts.

If you would like to get a free estimate on the cost to trim and prune your trees give us a call at (702) 793-2711 to schedule an appointment. Or click here to fill out a contact form.