Different Types of Tree Trimming and When They Should Be Done

Tree Trimming involves the selective removal of specific branches or limbs of a mature tree for a variety of purposes. These include improving structure, safety and appearance, removing dead or diseased branches, opening vistas, repairing storm damage, reducing risk of failure, or providing clearance for structures or traffic. Some other objectives can be thinning to reduce density, crown cleaning, and topiary work to shape trees into a desired form.

Improper trimming at the wrong time can cause severe decline and even death. To avoid this, it is necessary to understand the different types of pruning and when they should be performed.

Thinning – The most common type of pruning, thinning is the selective removal of live branches to reduce the overall density of a mature tree. It allows more sunlight to reach the lower parts of the canopy and can also reduce stress on selected limbs caused by wind, ice, or snow. When done correctly, thinning should not change the shape of a tree or drastically alter its form.

When thinning, it is important to maintain an even crown distribution throughout the entire tree. This will help to prevent an unsightly, cluttered look. Moreover, it is recommended that no more than 20 percent of the total branch volume be removed.

This type of pruning is used to remove dead or damaged limbs and limbs that are crossing or rubbing against each other, limbs with thorns below eye level, sucker growth from rootstock, water sprouts from limbs, and other objectionable growth. Pruning can also be used to correct defects in a tree such as leaning, crossing or rubbing limbs, tangled limbs, or limbs that interfere with power lines or pedestrians.

When doing this type of pruning, it is important to remember that trees heal much better from small cuts than from large ones. Therefore, it is essential to make each cut with purpose and follow proper techniques in order to ensure that the wounds close properly.

Using a tape measure and an inclinometer is a great way to determine the height of a tree. This can be difficult in some cases, especially when the tree is tall or if there are other obstacles such as shrubs in the way. For these situations, it may be helpful to use trigonometry to calculate the tree’s height. By creating a right triangle, with the known relationships between angles and lengths of sides, it can be very easy to figure out the exact height of a tree.

When pruning a tree, it is important to always be sure to use the three-cut technique. The first cut should be made underside of the branch, about 18 inches up from where it joins its support structure. The second cut should be a few inches farther out on the branch from the first cut, and the third cut should be made outside of the branch collar at a 45-degree angle kicking away from the base of the stem. This will allow the callus to form quickly and minimize bark damage.

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