Tree Trimming and Shaping

Tree trimming and shaping are two of the most common techniques for enhancing the beauty of trees in the landscape. They involve selectively cutting the branches of a tree to achieve a specific appearance or shape, and they are used for both aesthetic purposes as well as health concerns.

In some cases, both pruning and trimming are needed for a healthy tree. However, it’s important to understand the difference between these two techniques so that you know which one to use for the desired result. While a tree can be trimmed and shaped without pruning, pruning is more in-depth and involves removing diseased or problematic parts of the plant to improve its overall health.

Trimming is more like the hairstylist that gives your tree a stylish makeover. It involves cutting the ends of lateral branches to remove growth and give it a more desirable shape. While this helps with the appearance of a tree, it can also improve its health by promoting air circulation, light penetration and preventing overgrowth.

When conducting a trimming, it is crucial to avoid damaging the structure of a tree by making improper cuts. To avoid this, always begin by making an undercut halfway through the branch about 12-18 inches away from the point where it joins the main trunk. Aim to cut just outside of the branch collar, which is a slightly swollen or raised area with wrinkled bark where the main trunk meets the branch. This will ensure that the stub doesn’t get too large and prevent water damage to the underlying wood.

Next, saw upward through the remaining stub to reduce its size and remove any unnecessary material. The final cut should be made outside the branch collar at a 45-to 60-degree angle to the branch bark ridge.

Another common trimming technique is directional pruning, which involves selectively removing branches to guide the growth of a tree in a certain direction. This can help with aesthetics and improve safety by steering the tree away from structures or power lines. It can also be used for ornamental purposes by training trees and shrubs into desired shapes such as a dogwood, a weeping willow or an espaliered hedge. This type of pruning can be time-consuming and requires a skilled eye.

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