Most homeowners do know that it’s a good idea to keep their trees properly pruned, but many don’t realize how important it really is. Trees need to be trimmed regularly to help ensure the health of the tree and the safety of family members and others who may come into the area where the tree is located.
10 Benefits of Tree Trimming
Why should you trim your trees, here in Cincinnati, or anywhere else?
- For the safety of people and to prevent property damage. Damaged or weakened branches are far more likely to fall in strong winds or storm conditions, and pruning allows you to assess the health of your tree and remove any problematic limbs before they become dangerous.
- For tree health. Trimming dead or diseased branches will benefit the total health of the tree, both by removing diseased or infested limbs, and by allowing the tree to use its resources on healthier parts of the tree.
- Trimming will encourage trees to grow stronger cores to help prevent destruction by the elements. As nutrients, water, and sap are spared from having to sustain weak or damaged branches, they can be used instead in the trunk and core of the tree, giving the tree more strength.
- Trimming can help to improve a tree’s appearance and add value to your property. Beautiful, balanced tree crowns add a lovely aesthetic to any home’s exterior.
- Removing damaged, dead and diseased branches will help to prevent bacteria, fungi, and insects from invading the tree. Openings, holes, or weak spots in the bark, created by damage or disease, become an opportunity for infection or infestation.
- Thinning a dense canopy will increase sunlight and air flow which will help to prevent disease problems and help the tree to develop stronger limbs and a better shape.
- Eliminating crossing branches will prevent them from rubbing against each other which can cause wounds to the tree which can allow disease to enter and can even result in death to branches.
- Removing weak or narrow crotches will eliminate their breakage and the resulting torn wood. Tears in the wood will leave the tree vulnerable to disease and storm damage. Suckers and water sprouts should be removed to provide more water and nutrients for the tree, which will then strengthen the tree.
- Eliminate the possibility of a misshapen tree by trimming erratic or vigorous branches that can change the growth pattern of other branches. A balanced, natural tree shape will be achieved by removal of these branches.
- Trimming can restrict growth where it is undesirable, and can also stimulate growth in areas where it is needed to improve the shape of the tree. Skilful and knowledgeable tree service professionals can encourage your tree to grow in an ideal balance for its health and beauty.
When Should a Tree Be Trimmed?
A tree should be trimmed once a year, ideally when it is dormant in late fall, winter or very early spring, before it develops buds of new growth. Some specific types of trees should be trimmed at other times of the year, and our expert arborists here at Tree Images can help identify these trees for you. Dead or diseased branches can be trimmed as soon as they are noticed, regardless of the time of year. Trimming should not be done in hot, dry periods, in extremely cold weather, or during periods of heavy rains.
Our Cincinnati tree trimming experts are highly trained in pruning trees to ensure their health and create a beautiful silhouette. Keep in mind that not all tree varieties can be trimmed in the same time period or in the same way. Recognizing the problems with a tree before beginning the trimming process is essential to accomplishing the objective of ensuring the health and safety of the tree and its ideal aesthetic qualities.
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