Your trees need extra loving care to keep them growing healthy and beautiful. This includes trimming them regularly. However, if you don’t understand any proper tree trimming techniques, you may end up doing more harm than good to your trees.
With our extensive extensive experience in tree trimming and pruning in Gardena, CA, we give you some valuable arborist tips on how to trim your trees properly to avoid any issues down the road.
Trim During the Dormant Season
Even though you can trim your trees at any time, it’s best to do so during their dormant season. Pruning trees during their dormancy protects them from the spread of diseases. It also makes them less susceptible to attack once the temperatures rise and insect activity increases.
However, you shouldn’t wait until the dormant season to prune diseased or dying branches, as they could cause further tree infection or damage. When pruning a diseased branch, ensure you dip the blade in a 10% bleach solution between cuts to avoid spreading the infection.
Consider the Branch Size
It pays to determine the branch size before removing it. If a branch’s diameter doesn’t exceed five centimeters, you can safely remove it. You might want to spare it if it is between five and 10 centimeters in diameter. If the branch’s diameter exceeds 10 centimeters, you should only trim it if you have a compelling reason to do so.
Only Remove Weak, V-Shaped Branches
You can hardly speak about the best pruning methods without mentioning this tree trimming technique. You should only remove branches with weak, v-shaped, narrow angles. Don’t touch those branches with strong, u-shaped angles. If lateral branches aren’t between one-half and three-quarters the stem’s diameter at the point of attachment, get rid of them!
Also, avoid trimming branches too close or too long. Ensure you don’t leave large stubs or remove the branch collars.
Expert Advice on Large Branch Cutting
If you want to remove larger branches with zero fuss, be sure to follow these steps:
- Create a shallow cut, about four inches from the trunk, on the underside of the branch you want to remove.
- Chop the branch off about two to three inches from the first cut. The weight of the unsupported branch will cause it to fall, but the initial cut will ensure the bark doesn’t peel down the side of the trunk.
- Create the final cut to remove the remaining stub. You should create this cut right outside the branch collar — the somewhat swollen spot where the trunk and branch connect.
Contact Your Local Tree Experts for Assistance
If you need help with any tree trimming technique or other tree care guidelines to avoid compromising tree trimming safety, Gutierrez and Sons Tree Service is the go-to local arborist. We provide a wide range of services, including:
- Tree Planting Service
- Tree Removal
- Tree Trimming and Pruning
Contact us at (310) 324-6593 for a quote or to learn more about questions like, “Does trimming dead branches help a tree?”