If there are trees on your property, they need specialized care, including tree pruning. This process is more complicated than it seems, and serves multiple purposes for the tree and your property. Here’s what to know about tree pruning.

Why Is Pruning Important?

As a tree grows, its branches may not naturally form the ideal shape. Branches may be too close together, causing them to hit each other when it’s windy. Some may even grow too close to structures and power lines.

The tree may be heavier on one side so it’s in danger of falling as it gets larger. It may also have a divided trunk, which makes it more vulnerable to splitting in heavy weather. Some structures may have dead or diseased branches that need to be removed to protect the health of the tree.

Tree pruning produces an attractive shape with evenly spaced and balanced branches. When done correctly, it makes the tree much less likely to break or fall, protects nearby structures, and allows your provider to identify and remove problem branches before they can cause any damage.

How Do Professionals Prune Trees?

A professional will carefully consider the growth patterns of the tree and the desired shape when choosing where and how much to cut, never removing more than 1/4 to 1/3 of the branches. Incorrect cutting can expose the greenery to disease or weaken its structure, while correct pruning can strengthen it.

For this reason, an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)-certified arborist should be in charge of trimming branches. They can tell you how often it needs to be trimmed, since it differs from one structure to the next. Young trees need pruning every one to three years depending on the species, while mature ones should be trimmed on a three to five-year cycle.

To schedule tree pruning with an ISA-certified arborist, choose Attaway Tree Service. Based in Moody, AL, and serving St. Clair County for over 40 years, their attention to detail and in-depth understanding of a range of tree species will keep your property attractive and your trees healthy. For a free estimate, call (205) 529-5380 or visit them online to learn more about their services.