For gardeners, Spring is always in the air.
Even if the temperature is below zero, we’re still thinking about our plants, trees, and next year’s vegetable harvest. Gardening and planting trees are not only relaxing hobbies, but it’s also is good for the environment.
Our gardens and landscaping also add curb appeal to homes. So taking care of them means nurturing our investment in our homes.
But, in order to receive the most benefits from gardening, we have to do proper maintenance. We need to prune, water, and fertilize periodically. We need to also be cognizant of when it’s time plant certain species and when it’s time to remove them from our gardens entirely.
To avoid needing to remove our precious plants and trees, we have to properly care for them. This is why tree pruning is so important!
Curious as to why tree pruning needs to happen on a regular basis? Read on to find out why tree pruning is vital to you, your trees, and your home’s curb appeal.
The Importance of Tree Pruning
It would be nice if we could simply plant a tree and watch it grow strong and healthy. But, that’s not the reality we gardeners and tree lovers face. Explore the following reasons pruning your trees is so important for the plant and for you.
1. Safety First
Trees can sometimes grow out of hand. Their natural features can sometimes inhibit their functionality in a space. For instance, consider a low hanging branch that makes it difficult for pedestrians to walk around.
This not only is an accident waiting to happen, but also an annoyance for neighbors who just want to have a nice stroll.
Larger branches that are dying can also be safety hazards. Especially, if they are hanging over our homes or in an area where they would injure someone if it fell.
As branches on a tree die, their connection to the tree trunk source weakens. This prevents growth and makes the branch less stable. When the branch is less stable, it’s more likely to fall since the trunk of the tree no longer supports it like it used to.
When larger branches fall they can all also be an insurance hassle. Especially, if they fall on your neighbor’s house! Your neighbor’s insurance company may try to collect from your insurance company if they believe that you didn’t take precautionary measures such as pruning the tree or cutting it down before the accident occurred.
Pruning and removing branches, however, can be dangerous as well. So, if you have larger branches to remove it’s best to call a professional to ensure no one is injured or property is damaged.
There are many things to consider when deciding the best way and time to prune a tree. But, this is where a professional’s help can get you the best results in the safest way possible.
2. Health
A tree is a living thing that needs to be properly cared for to maintain its health. Just like we have to go to the doctor to feel better and improve our health, a tree needs the same treatment.
Tree pruning protects the rest of the tree from damage and disease from a single branch. Insects and harmful organisms that can enter the tree can damage its integrity and health, substantially. But, when you remove the branch causing the problem you prevent further damage or death.
Pruning to thin a tree also improves its health. Removing some of the tree’s branches gives the rest of the tree more air and sunlight to flourish. Thinning the tree also lessens the chances of disease and decay.
Trees also are susceptible to tearing and splitting. Tearing and splitting can damage a tree past the point of no return. This may mean it will be forever oddly shaped or will need to be cut down completely.
To prevent tearing or splitting you’ll need to remove narrow crotches and one of the co-dominant leaders. Co-dominant leaders are two branches of the tree growing straight up that are equal in size. One of the co-dominant leaders will need to be removed so that the tree can move properly with the wind without splitting.
3. Appearance
A properly pruned tree is a pretty tree, simple as that. They’re not always pretty right after pruning, but eventually, your vision for the tree’s shape will come to life if you prune correctly.
Pruning can either restrict or enhance the tree’s growth. This gives you some control over how the tree grows and its overall shape.
You can do this by selecting which branches to prune and also when you prune. Pruning in the winter promotes growth in the Spring. This encourages trees to grow taller.
Pruning in the summer, however, promotes tree growth restriction. Pruning tree branches at this time encourage the tree to grow in a specific shape by limiting its growth in certain places.
You should remove any diseased or dead branch regardless of how it will affect the shape of the tree. You should remove these branches immediately despite the season as well. Removing the branch could alter its appearance, but it will allow it to grow for years to come.
On Board with Tree Pruning?
Pruning a tree can be a difficult and dangerous job. But, it’s completely necessary to promote the lifespan and integrity of the tree. It’s also necessary to avoid any accidents caused by branches falling.
Before cutting any branches yourself, research the needs of the tree. Different tree species have different pruning needs. Making the proper cuts is also essential to proper pruning technique.
After it’s done, you’ll be pleased with the results and glad that you avoided any mishaps. Your neighbors will also be pleased to walk straight under the tree instead of around it. Your home will also have better curb appeal allowing you to feel proud of your home and your awesome gardening and landscaping skills.
Looking to add some trees to your backyard? Check out our blog post to learn about the best trees to plant in your backyard for a lush look.