Why your trees need trimming

There are many benefits to keeping your trees trimmed and pruned beyond your front and backyards looking tidy. When done correctly, trimming and pruning trees can prolong their lives and health, keep your family safe, and improve fruit production.

Firstly, what are the different types of tree trimming and pruning?

Dead pruning

Dead pruning (or canopy cleaning) refers to trimming dead, diseased, or dying branches from the tree. This not only improves the appearance of the tree, but also increases safety. Here in New Zealand, we’re used to seeing branches littering the side of the road, front yards, across driveways etc. after a storm. Dead pruning removes these hazards before they have a chance to cause harm. It will also prevent any sick branches from spreading the disease. If you keep an eye out and catch these branches in time, you can minimise the dead wood instead of taking off the entire branch.

Canopy thinning

Canopy thinning refers to removing weak branches. This opens the canopy, increasing air flow and light penetration to the tree. By removing the weaker branches, you will also lighten the load on thicker or larger branches.

When canopy thinning, be careful to remove branches from the edge also. It will not only look better but will keep the structure of the tree intact.

Canopy lifting

Canopy lifting is removing lower branches with the aim of keeping sidewalks, roads, houses etc. clear.

Canopy reduction

Canopy reduction refers to lessening the overall height of the tree or mass of larger branches. This should only be carefully and by someone that understands the growth pattern. The focus is to remove terminal branches to preserve the main limb. If done correctly, the tree will continue to grow healthily with minimal risk of decay.

The benefits of tree trimming

If you’ve several trees in your yard, trimming can seem like a big and tedious job, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term costs.

Sun exposure

Plants need sunlight on their leaves for photosynthesis. If a lot of your tree’s leaves are hidden from the sun, then this hinders the process. Trim the unnecessary branches to allow the leaves more light and increase the amount of photosynthesis.

Stop diseases from spreading

Be sure to assess the tree for disease during any trimming. This will help you to stop any disease before it spreads. If you’re not sure, take photos and talk to your local tree specialist.

More fruit

Fewer branches equal more nutrients from soil to tree, which means bigger, tastier fruit.

Damage control

Prune trees that close to the house, garage, pool etc. Falling branches will damage your property and could affect your insurance claim.

Counterbalancing root loss

Trimming branches will compensate for any root loss and begin training the tree for shape.

Improve structure and appearance

Trimming improves the overall appearance and structure of the tree, which prevents the growth of broad or weak branches.

Pruning shears and pole saws are the best implements for tree trimming and pruning. By investing money in quality equipment and time in to trimming and pruning, you’ll be setting your trees and yard up for future success.