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Four Bad Tree Pruning Mistakes To Avoid

Although trees that grow naturally in forests and large parks need little to no maintenance, trees found on residential properties need routine maintenance in order to thrive in their more urban and suburban locations. Unfortunately, some trees get the wrong kind of tree maintenance, and they end up weakened and unable to grow to their full potential. In today’s blog post, we look at four bad tree pruning mistakes to avoid to help ensure the trees on a residential property are at their most healthy, stable, and beautiful.

Over Pruning

Trees need strategic pruning in order to remove dead or broken limbs and branches, and to stabilize the tree when it has become overgrown. However, some trees have too many limbs and too much foliage removed, known as over pruning. Some property owners and amateur tree crews excessively prune to avoid having to prune trees any time soon. Over pruning involves removing more than 20% of the tree limbs and branches, which causes undue stress on the tree and can make it become structurally unstable. It can also negatively impact the aesthetic beauty of the tree when it has been excessively pruned or trimmed back.

Tree Topping

Tree topping is the harmful process of chopping off the tree’s crown at the very top, resulting in far less foliage, and often an unappealing shape. Tree topping is often performed by amateur tree crews in order to prevent trees from growing too tall or coming into contact with utility lines or property structures. Tree topping does not encourage greater bloom growth, nor does it provide a long-term solution to large trees planted in small areas. Ultimately, tree topping does more harm than good, and the tree is often left weaker and more vulnerable in the process.

Incorrect Tree Cuts

Strategic, correct tree pruning isn’t solely based on knowing which limbs and branches should be removed. It also involves knowing how to correctly remove a limb or branch without jeopardizing future tree health and growth. When an amateur tree crew lops off a branch or limb flush with the tree trunk, the tree collar is also removed, which is a critical part of the tree’s healing process. Without a tree collar, the tree is left with an open wound, unable to create a callous to prevent attacks from tree diseases or invasive insects.

Poor Timing

There are ideal times to prune fruit and shade trees in Texas, and the heat of the summer is not one of those times. Trees are already expending their energy resources growing and creating new leaves, and the additional stress from summer tree pruning can put the tree’s health at risk. It is far better for the tree’s immediate recovery and long-term health to prune in the cooler months when the tree enters its dormant season.

Residential properties require routine tree maintenance, but choosing the right tree care provider can make all the difference with tree health. Embark Services proudly offers a full range of residential tree care services throughout the greater Houston area. Our safe, efficient, professional, and cost-effective tree services include Tree Pruning, Tree Planting, Tree Preservation, Deep Root Fertilization, Root Flare Excavation, Cabling and Bracing, Lightning Protection, Tree Disease and Insect Treatment, and Tree Removal. Contact Embark Services today for more information about our tree services, or request a free consultation today!