Apr 12, 2023
Trees and shrubs are an essential part of any landscape. They provide shade, beauty, and value to your home. However, trees and shrubs need regular care to stay healthy and attractive. Proper trimming and pruning are among the most important aspects of tree and shrub care.
Trimming and pruning are different, but they are often used interchangeably. Trimming is the process of removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches from a tree or shrub. Pruning is the process of shaping and controlling the growth of a tree or shrub.
Both trimming and pruning are essential for tree and shrub health. Trimming helps to remove diseased and damaged branches, which can help to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning helps to control the growth of a tree or shrub, which can help to keep it healthy and attractive.
You should trim or prune your trees and shrubs for many different reasons. Some common causes include:
- To remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches
- To control the growth of a tree or shrub
- To improve the shape of a tree or shrub
- To open up the canopy of a tree to allow more light and air to reach the lower branches
- To remove branches that are hanging over power lines or other structures
It is always best to consult a qualified arborist if you are still determining whether you need to trim or prune your trees and shrubs. An arborist can assess the health of your trees and shrubs and recommend the best course of action.
When trimming or pruning trees and shrubs, it is essential to follow proper safety procedures. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with sharp tools. Be sure to use the correct tools for the job. And never climb a tree to trim or prune branches. Use a ladder or other safe means of access.
If you are uncomfortable trimming or pruning your trees and shrubs, it is best to hire a qualified arborist like Strobert Tree Services.
The professionals at Strobert Tree Services have the experience and training to safely and effectively trim and prune your trees and shrubs.
When to Trim and Prune
The best time to trim or prune trees and shrubs is during the dormant season, typically from late fall to early spring. This is when the trees and shrubs are not actively growing, so the wounds from
pruning will heal more quickly.
However, there are some cases where it may be necessary to trim or prune trees and shrubs during the growing season. For example, suppose a storm damages a tree or shrub. In that case, it may need to be pruned immediately to prevent further damage.
If you need help determining when to trim or prune your trees and shrubs, call Strobert Tree Services today at 302-742-1172.
How to Trim and Prune
There are a few different methods for trimming and pruning trees and shrubs. The best way for you will depend on the type of tree or shrub you are working with and the desired results.
One standard method for trimming and pruning is to use hand pruners. Hand pruners are an excellent choice for small branches less than 1 inch in diameter. To use hand pruners, hold the branch with one hand and the pruners with the other. Make a clean cut outside the branch collar, the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk.
Another standard method for trimming and pruning is to use loppers. Loppers are excellent for larger branches 1 to 2 inches in diameter. To use loppers, hold the branch with one hand and the loppers with the other. Make a clean cut just outside of the branch collar.
You may need to use a chainsaw for larger branches that are more than 2 inches in diameter. Chainsaw use requires special training and safety gear. If you are uncomfortable using a chainsaw, hiring a qualified arborist to do the job is best.
Making clean cuts when trimming or pruning trees and shrubs is essential. Clean cuts will help the tree or shrub heal more quickly and reduce the risk of infection.
It is also essential to avoid making flush cuts. Flush cuts remove all of the bark from the branch collar, which can weaken the tree or shrub. Instead, make a cut that leaves a small stub of bark. This stub will help the tree or shrub heal more quickly.
Aftercare
After you have trimmed or pruned your trees and shrubs, providing them with proper aftercare is vital. This includes watering them regularly and fertilizing them as needed.
You should also monitor them for signs of disease or pests.
If you need help caring for your trees and shrubs after trimming or pruning, it is always best to consult a certified arborist.
Conclusion
Tree trimming and shrub pruning are essential tasks that should be done regularly to keep your trees and shrubs healthy and attractive. Suppose you are not comfortable trimming or pruning your trees and shrubs. In that case, hiring a qualified arborist like Strobert Tree Services in Wilmington, Delaware, is best.
Strobert Tree Services has provided quality tree care services to Wilmington, Delaware, for over 20 years. They are committed to providing the best possible service to their customers. Strobert Tree Services uses only the highest quality tree care methods and equipment. They are also licensed and insured, with a professional arborist team.
Contact Strobert Tree Services today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about their tree trimming and shrub pruning services.
