Although trimming and pruning are different services provided by arborists, they are often combined into “trimming” as a single term. In general, pruning refers to the selective removal of tree structure to improve its health, shape, and productivity. Trimming, on the other hand, is the general reduction of plant size or shape for aesthetic or practical reasons.

Pruning often involves removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as those that interfere with the tree’s structure or growth. Trimming will often involve removing healthy branches to control the tree’s size or shape. In Cottonwood trees, for example, the dead branches often become hosts for beetle infestations, thus calling for pruning; however, its rapid growth near residential or commercial structures requires regular trimming.

Now that we have established that trimming includes pruning, let’s go over the three reasons the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) recommends the frequent scheduling of tree trimming services:

Allows Us to Have Trees as Neighbors

When we take possession or tenancy of land, the trees we decide to keep become part of the property, which means that we are responsible for their health and appearance. This responsibility extends beyond simply admiring their beauty and shade; it involves active care, which includes trimming. The ISA states that pruning should have a solid purpose to improve structure, remove hazards, or enhance growth.

Regular trimming is essential for maintaining a tree’s health, ensuring its longevity, and preventing it from becoming a hazard to property or people. It also allows us to shape the tree’s growth, ensuring it complements our property and coexists harmoniously with other plants and structures. If your property is managed as primary or secondary forest land, you don’t have to worry about trimming too much because the trees are not living with humans as neighbors.

Prevents Disease

Removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches prevents the spread of bacterial and fungal infections throughout the tree. These weak spots can attract pests and diseases, so their removal helps to protect the overall health of the tree. Tree trimming stimulates new growth by directing the tree’s energy towards healthy branches. Removing overcrowded foliage allows more sunlight to reach the remaining leaves, thus promoting photosynthesis and healthier leaf growth.

Something important to note about trimming for tree health is that it is not limited to preventing disease in the trunk, branch, and root system. Sick or dead trees can spread disease to other trees and plant species; plus, it can prevent insect and vermin infestations that can extend to residential and commercial spaces.

Improves Tree Structures

With proper trimming, your trees can develop a strong and balanced structure. This is done by removing competing or crossing branches to encourage thicker and healthier growth. This improved structure makes the tree more robust and resistant to wind damage.

Cottonwood trees, for example, can benefit greatly from a structured trimming strategy that removes weak or crossing branches; this stimulates the tree to develop a central leader with a stronger framework. With many Green Ash trees, multiple leaders tend to grow in unpredictable directions, so you want to apply a trimming strategy that encourages the growth of a dominant central leader.

Published by: Martin De Juan