Tree pruning, which is the process of trimming and eliminating tree branches, has long been practiced for tree care. It is done for a lot of reasons –to cut the height, remove damaged parts, or shape a design. Whatever the aim though, it should be noted that there are specific ways branches should be pruned so that the tree will improve. Simply cutting the branches or stems off might trigger negative results such as epicormic budding. Besides that, it can also lead to the growth of weak branches, which will need a more demanding maintenance process.
What are the proper techniques in tree pruning?
To avoid such adverse outcomes, what should you do? Well, aside from having a good background on arboriculture knowledge, proper tool handling also comes a long way. Choose appropriate tools that match the type of plant you are about to trim. Secateurs, saws, shears, and many other tools should be used accordingly.
Before pruning, make sure that the tools used for cutting are well-sharpened. That way, you can minimise any bark damage. You also have to make sure that you are trimming on the right places – somewhere near the trunk of the tree. Check the sides for unnecessary stubs – you do not want them because they make for an easy route for tree diseases. In situations where you need to eliminate thick branches, consider cutting in stages. Begin from the underside and start cutting from the end. Stop by the time you reach the branch collar.
In addition, you need to clean the tools as you prune from plant to plant. Disinfecting them will help prevent the spread of tree diseases. Once you finish, polish any jagged edges by using a sharp knife, then seal the pruned areas with pruning compound. It will help avoid insects from invading the open wounds of the plant. Acrylic paint is also an excellent alternative.
Finally, assess the tree and ensure it is in a good condition.
Tree pruning and its benefits
Knowing the guidelines to tree pruning, you may want to explore what benefits follow afterwards. Dead wooding, removing the already vulnerable parts of the tree, definitely gives an advantage to your plants – it lessens further rot and damage. Since, through this process, you eliminate diseased branches, there comes now an improvement to the health of the tree, and a minimised risk of limb falling. But how does pruning become beneficial and advantageous to people as well?
Proper tree pruning promotes an overall strongly-grown branch structure. This means that your tree has less chances of losing branches even when faced with heavy winds. With that, there are lower chances of accidents like a person or property being hit by a falling branch. It also provides for a safer and clearer environment especially when the tree is situated where there are passing vehicles and pedestrians.
Aside from that, pruning can result in an amazing aesthetic. Well-designed and shaped trees are an absolute visual treat. They even add value to your property since they are known to take a long time to grow – and the maintenance is expensive at that.
All in all, pruning gives a lot of benefits – from risk reduction to aesthetic enhancement, it is absolutely worth the investment.
Hire JK Cooper for professional tree pruning
Because each tree demands a specific way of care, you will need professionals to assist you with their tree services. Australian Standards for pruning is also set as a guideline, so it is important that qualified and trained individuals do the job. Contact JK Cooper Tree Services for professional pruning and other tree management services.
