Trimming a tree can be extremely important to the life of a tree. If done properly it can lead to better aeration, better nutrient flow, and a healthier tree. If done incorrectly, it can lead to the death of your tree. So what are some important things to remember when pruning?

The grey box in this
picture demonstrates
where a cut should be
made.

Timing, for starters, can be extremely important. Different trees require pruning at different times of the year. For instance, flowing trees should be trimmed right after their flowers have fallen. This is because the buds for the flowers are generally established after the flowers have fallen. If the trimming is done too late, the tree may have less flowers, or may have no flowers at all. Maples, on the other hand, can be trimmed almost any time of the year, however it is recommended they be trimmed in the late fall to early winter to keep from excessive “bleeding.”

The place where many not so green thumbs cause possible injury it their trees is the removal of branches. Branches should be removed at the point where the branch meets the truck. The only section of the branch that should be left on the tree is the ring of bark that is around the very beginning of a tree. Failure to do so will not allow the tree to fully cover the wound with bark. This, in turn, leaves the tree susceptible to disease and fungus.

Know the species of tree you are going to trim. Make sure you do adequate research on the tree before pruning it to know the effects your pruning will have. If done correctly, your tree will be healthier and live for years to come.