Common Tree Trimming Mistakes You Should Avoid


People view tree trimming as a straightforward task. As such, they'll tend to take the DIY approach. Unfortunately, most people tend to make mistakes that can ruin the health and structure of their trees. Here are some common mistakes people make when trimming their trees.

Using Old Tree Trimming Tools

Having the right skill and techniques doesn't mean you'll do the job correctly. You have to use the right trimming tools. Otherwise, you'll end up with bad cuts. If you commit to trimming your trees, make sure the trimming tools are sharp and free from rust. Avoid using old, blunt tools because they can cause ragged, rough cuts. Once you finish trimming, store your tools in a moisture-free area to protect them for future use.

Cutting Too Close to the Branch Collar

Most guys make the mistake of cutting too close to the base. Remember that the branch collar is located at the base of a branch. The branch collar is responsible for passing nutrients into and out of the tree. That said, you can't just slice through the collar and expect everything to be okay. Doing so damages the surrounding tree tissues and creates a disconnection between the structures transporting nutrients.

To avoid making this mistake, you should cut a few inches away from the trunk. Don't cut a tree branch off flush against the tree trunk.

Trimming During the Wrong Time of the Year

Tree trimming should be done during winter when the trees are dormant. During this time, trees are less susceptible to diseases and insects. Regrettably, some people will trim their trees without considering the time of the year.

Trimming your trees during summer is very wrong because the tree will have difficulty producing the new flush of growth. You should also avoid trimming your trees during fall because you'll prevent them from going into natural dormancy.

Topping a Tree

Topping is cutting off the treetop. Some people make the mistake of topping a tree without knowing the consequences. Tree topping means that the tree will remain short and develop water sprouts at the top. Moreover, a topped tree will always look ugly, and it can ruin your landscape.

By topping your tree, you'll leave a massive wound that takes a long period to heal. Unfortunately, disease organisms and insects might use the large wounds as entry points. Other problems to expect after tree topping include sunscald, peeling bark, and cracks.

Other mistakes you should avoid include:

  • Lion tailing
  • Pruning large branches
  • Bad cuts
  • Trimming too little of the branch

For more information on tree trimming, contact a professional near you.

About Me

how to identify tree illnesses and infestations

I spent my youth in the city, but when I got married, I moved out into the country with my new husband. We bought a house on a beautiful, wooded piece of land. It is the sanctuary that I had been missing all of my life. Unfortunately, having not grown up around trees, I was unaware of the fact that several of the trees were being killed by a nasty little beetle. Since those trees were removed, I have taken the time to learn how to identify tree illnesses and infestations before they become so serious that the trees need to be removed. Find out how to identify these issues here on my blog.

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