- Jan 5, 2022
- Dreamworks Tree Services
- Tree Pruning
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7 Rules of Tree Pruning You Should Know
Most homeowners consider pruning to be an easy task. However, you need to consider many factors, such as the purpose of tree pruning, the size and species of the plant, the growth behaviour, and your location. Otherwise, you may end up damaging your tree. Read on to learn about the basic pruning rules so you can make an informed decision to maintain your plant’s health and aesthetics.
7 Rules You Should Follow When Pruning Your Trees
Prune When the Trees are Dormant
A general rule for tree pruning is to trim when the plants are dormant. This way, you can reduce the stress on them. Moreover, it is easier to access the limbs during dormancy and identify where to make the right cuts.
Prune the Weakest Limbs First
You do not need to wait for the right season to trim diseased, damaged, or dead branches. Be sure to prune immediately to make the plant healthier and avoid serious damage. Moreover, by removing these limbs, you can ensure the desired growth and fruiting, enough water and nutrients and the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. The best way is to prune the weakest trees first and the strong ones last.
Follow The 1/3 Rule
According to tree care experts, this rule works best for fruiting trees and ensures they remain productive. It involves trimming around 1/3 of the branch, as cutting more than that may increase the chances of damage or stunt its growth. However, pruning too little will not give you the desired result.
Make Appropriate Cuts
Qualified arborists recommend the following types of tree pruning cuts:
- A thinning cut helps remove an entire branch, shoot, or scaffold without disturbing the shape, health, and growth of the trees.
- A heading cut is invigorating and helps to develop new, strong shoots below them. It also creates crowding and shade. However, you should avoid making too many small heading cuts because they may irritate the tree and affect its health.
Make Cuts on the Undersides
To avoid the growth of strong upright shoots, shading, and the additional cost of pruning, trim on the underside of the branch.
Maintain the Correct Height
Proper pruning is the best way to maintain an ideal tree height and ensure proper structure. It is wise to start this process when your tree is younger because it can be difficult to prune a tall tree to maintain its height.
Remove Old, Tired Spurs
Old, weak spurs bloom late and may produce smaller fruits compared to healthy ones. You can ensure they are strong by pruning them back to one or two buds facing up. This way, they will get more exposure to sunlight.
Hire Our Tree Care Experts for Pruning Your Trees
At DreamWorks Tree Services, we offer quick, efficient, and reliable tree pruning services in Toronto and the GTA. Our arborists will assess your property and recommend the best solutions to ensure your trees are healthy and beautiful.
If you have any questions or require tree pruning in Toronto and the surrounding area, give us a call at 647-924-2627. You may also fill out our online form to schedule a free property assessment.
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