Tree Pruning Dos and Don’ts for a Flourishing Landscape

Spring’s here, and with it, a chance to give your trees some much-needed TLC after the rough winter. This season’s tough weather can be hard on your trees, leaving them looking a bit worse for wear.

It’s the perfect time to get into the nitty-gritty of tree pruning. We’ll walk you through the best and worst ways to do it, and why it’s so important for keeping your garden healthy and looking sharp.

Why Checking Your Trees After Winter is Key

First things first, take a good look at your trees after winter has done its worst. Snowstorms, freezing cold, and strong winds can mess with your trees’ health and even make them unsafe. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

• Broken Branches: These can be dangerous and might need to come off right away.
• Sick or Dead Limbs: Getting rid of these can stop diseases from spreading and help the tree get back to good health.
• Cracks and Splits: If the trunk or branches are cracked, you’ll want to deal with it fast to keep the tree safe and strong.
• Pests: Spotting pests early can save you a lot of trouble by stopping them from doing more damage.

Smart Pruning Practices for Spring

Pruning is essential for keeping your trees healthy and looking good, but it’s important to do it wisely. Here’s what to consider:

What to Do:

• Timing is Key: Aim to prune in late winter or early spring when trees are still dormant. This helps reduce stress on the tree and makes it easier for wounds to heal.
• Keep Tools in Top Shape: Use sharp, clean pruning tools for clean cuts. Disinfecting your tools between cuts can also prevent the spread of diseases.
• Focus on the Problem Areas: Concentrate on removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches to boost the tree’s health.
• Prune Correctly: Make your cuts just outside the branch collar (the area where the branch meets the trunk) to encourage proper healing.

What to Avoid:

• Over-pruning: Removing too much of the tree at once can stress it out. Try not to cut away more than 25% of the tree’s branches.
• Improper Cuts: Avoid cutting too close to the trunk, which can harm the tree. Leaving the branch collar intact is crucial for healing.
• Tree Topping: Cutting off the top of the tree can weaken its structure and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.
• Pruning in Damp Conditions: Moisture can harbor diseases, so it’s best to prune on a dry day to minimize the risk of spreading pathogens.

Benefits of Proper Spring Pruning

When done correctly, spring pruning has several advantages:

• Promotes Strong Growth: It helps trees direct energy to the most important areas, encouraging healthy growth.
• Beautifies Your Yard: Pruning helps shape your trees, enhancing the overall look of your property.
• Reduces Hazards: Removing weak or damaged branches can prevent them from falling and causing damage or injury.
• Controls Disease: Cutting away diseased branches helps protect the tree and your garden from further infection.
• Improves Tree Health: Proper pruning improves air circulation and sunlight exposure to the tree, contributing to its overall well-being.

Considering Professional Pruning Services

Though some pruning tasks can be handled on your own, for optimal results, especially with larger or more complex trees, professional tree care assistance is highly recommended. This is where Anderson’s Tree Care Specialists come in. Our certified arborists are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and experience to ensure your trees are pruned correctly, promoting health and beauty in your garden. 

Don’t leave the well-being of your trees to chance. Contact Anderson’s Tree Care Specialists today and take a significant step towards a more vibrant, thriving garden.