How to Prune Trees

Sunday, November 27, 2011

How to Prune Trees

!±8± How to Prune Trees

Tree Pruning Tips

These pruning tips are for back yard home type of trees and not orchard tree type pruning.

Pruning trees and shrubs now (January-April) will create a good looking landscaping tree and will increase the life span of any tree or plant. And if done correctly will increase the productivity of all fruit trees.

1. If you are pruning to keep the tree size down usually means the wrong tree was selected for the landscaping area.

2. You should prune dead, dying limbs or branches that are diseased no matter where they are.

3. Prune any limbs or branches that are interfering with power lines, traffic and or visibility from streets.

4. Prune if branches are overhanging into your neighbors yard. Be sure to ask your neighbor if this is ok.

5. Rule of Thumb. Only prune if there is real reason to do so.

Tools Needed for pruning

1. Hand shears - Are needed for pruning small twigs and branches.

2. Pole Pruners -for pruning or cutting branches or limbs that are 6ft. or more off the ground.

3. Chainsaws - Are used for larger type branches that are more than 3 inches diameter.

4. Eyewear Goggles - Always wear eye protection when pruning, shearing, cutting or doing any type of heavy gardening work.

5. Lopper shears - Are good for larger type branches normally about 1.5 inches or less in diameter.

Should you call a professional?

A professional tree expert is called an "Arborist."

Call one for larger type trees. Be sure they are licensed, insured and bonded. This goes for any type of landscaping professional. Also if there is a power line involved call you local power line company for further information. Do not tackle any large over hanging branch by yourself.

Do NOT prune larger type branches from trees that are hanging over any type of electrical or power lines. Call a professional maintenance landscaper.

Do not put any type of pruning sealer on a trimmed off branch or limb. All trees and shrubs have their own way of healing any cut or wound. Remember to always clean all pruning tool blades with alcohol to avoid the spread of diseases.