Tree Pruning

Autumn, the perfect season to prune your tree. During this season, leaves fall from trees. This is the perfect time to inspect each tree canopy. With the leaves out of the way, you can easily check on your tree and determine whether your tree needs pruning. There are many reasons for you to prune your tree limbs. The obvious reason would be to prune your tree so it looks and performs better. It is true that trees can grow naturally well even without pruning, however, by pruning, you can unleash the full potential of your tree and allow it to live a longer life than it ever could on its own.

Why Prune?

Pruning removes dead, dying, and diseased branches. Pruning branches also helps to prevent branches from rubbing against each other so the entire tree can continue to grow in a healthy way with ample room for it to grow comfortably. Pruning tree branches open-up the canopy to allow light and air to filter throughout the entire tree. This allows it to have increased foliage while also decreasing the risk of disease for your tree.  At ground level, water sprouts or suckers can weaken the wood and steal nutrients away from the main tree. We can do our part to help the tree to establish one main tree. The main tree should then be able to withstand winter storms and even high winds.

How to prune a thick tree branch?

First, you would need to travel approximately 18 inches up of the underside of the branch which you want to remove. Cut upward roughly halfway through the branch. This would be the perfect area for you to make your first cut. Then, move toward the top side of the branch. Remember to choose a location that is an inch further from your first cut. Carefully cut down until the tree branch breaks free. Later, you would need to your trunk’s branch collar. This is a stem tissue that can be found around the base of the branch. Make a cut from a 45-degree angle, kicking out from the base of the tree. By doing so, you will prevent water damage and encourage the quick formation of the callus.