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Tree
Trimming Basics for the Home Owner
by Stephen Daniels
Did you know that improper pruning kills or severely damages more
trees each year than pest infestations? In other words, it is better to not
prune at all than to do it the wrong way. The following are some basic
techniques to remember the next time you are sprucing up your landscaping.
In most cases, technique is more important than timing. Most tree species
can be pruned any time of year. However, there are certain times that are more
ideal than others for each variety. Deciduous varieties should be pruned
according to their blooming schedule. Those that bloom before May should be
trimmed as soon as flowering is over. Pruning between January and March is best
for trees that flower after May. Evergreens that don't bear cones should be
pruned in May, but wait until the fall for trimming conifers.
There are, of course, trees that are exceptions to these rules. Some types
of trees are especially vulnerable to insect infestations, so should be pruned
during winter months when insects are at a minimum. Should you have any
questions, conduct an Internet search, or consult with a professional landscaper
for expert advice.
When preparing for tree trimming, look for dead branches, sprouts growing
from the base of trunks and branches that rub or cross. These problems should be
eliminated first. Always make cuts as close to the main branch or trunk as
possible - but without cutting into the main branch or trunk. Each cut should be
made at a 45 degree angle.
After these issues are resolved, you can then prune for aesthetics. This
means shaping trees to make them more visually appealing or better suited for
your area. U-shaped connection points at branches are stronger than V-shaped
ones, so opt for trimming the V-shapes. Any branch that is too large to hold
with one hand should be cut in stages to avoid damaging the bark on the tree.
You should never prune trees that are around power lines. Doing so could
result in severe injury or even death, should branches fall upon the live wires.
Be sure to wear some type of harness when scaling large trees as a safety
measure against falls. Using sharp pruning tools will not only increase the
effectiveness of your cuts, but will also safeguard against unnecessary damage
to the trees.
It may prove difficult, if not impossible, for most people to prune large
trees in a safe manner without causing injury to themselves, someone else or
nearby property. In addition, many people are concerned about harming their
trees through inadvertently trimming them incorrectly. In these cases, a
landscape service or tree-trimming professional will be able to make certain the
job is done right.
Stephen Daniels is an acclaimed
SEO 2.0
researcher of best practices, products, and services for a wide variety of
industries. He highly recommends the services of the
Los Angeles landscape contractors at Four Seasons Landscaping, bringing over
20 years in the field. |
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