Tree trimming is about more than just shaping the branches with heavy shears; it’s an important part of overall tree care and safety. Long branches that hang over the road, power lines or your home are hazards, and weak branches can be easily broken by strong winds and storms. Remove those potential dangers before they become a problem by properly trimming your trees.
Safety
Damaged branches can fall on your house, in your yard or on sidewalks — which can injure your family and friends. Branches and foliage that extend into roadways and obstruct motorists’ views should also be trimmed back.
Trees that grow too tall and touch power lines are fire hazards. But when it comes to electricity and trees, leave trimming to the pros. Don’t attempt to work on trees that are within 10 feet of overhead wires, and definitely don’t touch a branch that’s touching a wire. Instead, call your local energy company to take care of the problem safely.
Health
Trimming also promotes healthy tree growth. Dead or diseased limbs left untrimmed can decay and rot, attracting wood-boring insects. Those insects can weaken the structure of the tree, causing an otherwise healthy tree to fall.
Though it may seem like removing rot could jeopardize the tree’s structure, pruning can encourage trees to develop stronger cores and better withstand the elements. If the job seems too big to do alone, consider hiring an arborist.
Appearance
Overgrown trees can distract from your otherwise picturesque yard. Keep unruly trees in check by trimming them yearly, particularly during the dormant season. That period can differ for each tree, so make trimming a part of your normal yard maintenance.
Regular pruning can improve flower or fruit production on certain trees. Old wood — which is older than the current season’s new growth — can be damaged and delay fruiting and flowering. Removing these branches can encourage new growth and keep your tree healthy and happy.
Pruning large trees can require ladders and, occasionally, using trimmers in proximity to power lines. The safest course of action is to leave tree trimming to the professionals, so you and your family can enjoy the safety and beauty of a well-kept yard.
