6 Benefits of Tree Pruning and Trimming

For the average property owner, it can be tough to know when your trees are in need of a trim. And, aside from obvious reasons like the tree’s appearance, it can be hard to see why they would need to be pruned at all. But, there are plenty of ways that your trees can benefit from just a simple, fine pruning or an overall crown-reducing tree trimming service.

Types of tree pruning and trimming

Fine Pruning is removing small limbs to improve the tree’s appearance.

Standard Pruning involves a bit more heavy cutting and is done to enhance the tree’s branch structure.

Hazard Trimming is recommended for trees that pose safety concerns. This typically involves removing branches that are two inches or more in diameter.

Crown Reduction Trimming usually involves the removal of major branches, and should only be done when there is significant dieback, storm damage, or when branches are interfering with power lines. In these cases, one should never remove more than one third of the tree’s crown.

6 Benefits of Tree Trimming

1. Proper trimming can improve the health of your trees by eliminating branches that are dead or dying. These branches are often dangerous, and removing them reduces the risk of harm to your family and damage your property. This will also prevent further decay.

2. Improves the overall appearance and structure of the tree, keeping it from developing broad or weak branches. Trimming prevents limbs from growing with weak crotches, or eventually crossing each other and competing for space in the crown.

3. Trimming your trees will increase sun exposure and air circulation throughout the tree and underlying landscape, which will improve the tree’s health. Just be sure to watch out for signs of sun-scald, which often affects leafless deciduous trees in the winter time.

4. Pruning fruit trees can actually improve the size and quantity of the crop. Fruit trees should be pruned in late winter for shape and to expose the center of the tree to sunlight.

5. Newly planted trees should be pruned to compensate for root loss and to begin training the tree for shape.

6. Tree trimming can also simply open up your property and improve your view.

Different trees should be pruned at different times of the year. For example, trimming ornamental trees—especially those that flower before June— should be done in early spring before they get their new growth. Fruit trees should be pruned in late winter to expose the center of the tree to light and to create a shapely foundation for spring growth.

When to trim trees: summer vs winter

If you see dead or damaged branches in your trees, they should be removed right away. In other cases, when you prune for shape and overall health, here are a couple of helpful guidelines and considerations for timing.

Winter tree trimming

It’s a very good idea to prune your trees during the winter. It allows a burst of new growth once spring returns and it can really lead to a fuller, more mature look for the tree later down the road. If you want to prune this winter, it’s best to wait until the coldest part of season has passed. Late January or early February would be a good bet.

Summer tree trimming

Pruning in the summer is smart if you want to slow branch growth and keep the tree at a certain size. Cutting back branches after a spring growth spurt allows for more of the food manufactured in the tree’s leaves to be sent straight to the roots, making the tree stronger. This will be the perfect opportunity to help correct limbs that may be defective or branches that are drooping because the leaves are too heavy, which wouldn’t be as apparent when leaves are gone in the winter.

It is important to note that you shouldn’t prune your trees in autumn, as this is the time that fungi spreads quickly, especially on trees that have recently been cut. If your tree is already in distress from drought or damage, fungi and insects could actually kill it.

Before you start pruning your trees, read up on the correct way to cut the branches, because if they are trimmed incorrectly, it can damage the tree permanently. Furthermore, check the species of your trees to be sure that there are not specific instructions for care.

Tree pruning and trimming services in Portland

If you need assistance with tree trimming, pruning, or removal in any season, call Inexpensive Tree Care at 503-504-4179.