Pruning your trees might seem like a bit of a hassle, as it just seems to add to your outdoor chores. However, it is important to keep them pruned for so many reasons – including the fact that doing simple pruning occasionally can stop you from having to do much more work at another time. Colorado State recommends pruning more extensively when your tree is younger. But the question remains: why should you prune your trees?
Tree Health
Removing dead, damages, and diseased branches will help to prevent insect infestations AND stop any spread of fungus throughout the tree. Thin the canopy (leafy part) of the tree to increase air and sunlight throughout the entire tree – which will also provide more food and water for the tree.
Eliminate crossing branches, as they make each other weaker through erosion and constant rubbing. The same goes for wear or narrow branches that can split apart or fall, damaging the branches around them and creating a cycle of destruction.
The Mississippi Forestry Commission suggests that you also remove the co-dominant leaders. Co-dominant leaders are the two branches growing near the very top of a tree that grow straight up and become equally dominant. Cutting off one allows the other branch to grow & become the dominant branch.
Safety
Correct and consistent pruning will create and maintain a strong tree that is less likely to cause damages to your yard, your home, electrical wires, or anyone around your home.
Low branches run the risk of being a hazard for anyone walking or running on the sidewalk or in the yard – especially problematic for ride along mowers. Trim them above the height of the tallest person in your family, at the very least.
Make sure to prune trees back from electrical wires. You won’t make any friends in your neighborhood if you knock out the power – especially during a heat wave.
Better Look
Trees that are pruned just look better, that’s the basic truth and motivation behind most pruning activity. Erratic branches cause the trees to look misshapen and ruin the overall effect.
Early removal is key in training your tree to do what you want it to do. You can use cuts, or you can use cables to tie branches where you want them to go.
Below is video demonstrating how to prune trees for the best effect:
Pruning trees is highly important, especially when it is done correctly. If you have any questions or concerns about tree pruning, feel free to contact our Huntsville, AL tree pruning team at 256-513-6277 or browse the rest of our website for more information!
Photo Credit: Andrew Fogg on Flickr!
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