Trimming trees is an important tree care activity. When you trim your trees, you are able to remove dead or diseased branches, reduce burdensome weight from the tree, and promote new and healthy growth. However, like many activities, tree trimming is only helpful when it is done right. When tree trimming is done improperly, it can actually cause more problems for the tree than simply doing nothing. Here are a few negative consequences that can result from improper tree trimming.
Marred Beauty
One of the difficulties of properly trimming a tree is that it is hard for an untrained trimmer to know where to make cuts as well as how to make them. Common mistakes include cutting branches off the tops of the tree (topping), trimming the ends off the ends of the branches (tipping), and cutting a disproportionate number of branches from one area of the tree. All these can cause trees to look awkward, and sometimes it can take a long time to outgrow the effects of a bad trim!
Diseased Branches
When you trim a tree, you are making a cut into the wood. This is by definition an injury to the tree. Open wounds on a tree can easily allow pests and organisms inside and cause infection. Though disease may begin in these areas of weakness, there is no guarantee that they will stay there. Infection or infestation can have a harmful effect on trees and may even lead eventually to death and the necessity for removal.
Weakening Trees
When improper pruning techniques are used and disease results, trees can quickly become weakened. Sometimes the inner wood of the tree becomes less dense or even dies while the outward, visible parts remain looking normal. A weakened tree is a dangerous tree. While trees can go on looking outwardly strong, an undetected weakness will make the tree vulnerable. Strong winds, ice, or any jarring hit can cause branches to break or even entire trees to fall.
Property Damage
In addition to the long-term effects of improper tree trimming, there are also some immediate dangers. When trimming large branches, you may accidentally drop a branch onto nearby property. Branches are heavy and when falling from any height, they can cause quite significant damage. These kinds of damage are easily avoidable by using properly trimming techniques, such as securing branches.
Personal Damage
Even more destructive than property damage is the potential personal damage that can occur. Trimming trees is not without risk to the trimmer. Falling branches as well as accidental injury from trimming tools (such as chainsaws) are the most common causes of damage. These kinds of injuries can be serious and even fatal. It is important to use the utmost care when using such powerful tools on large, heavy trees.
As you consider the harm that can result from improperly trimming trees, you may come to the conclusion that this is a job that is best left to the professionals. Our tree technicians and arborists know the best techniques to quickly and safely trim your trees. We will trim your trees properly in order to leave them stronger, healthier, and more beautiful than before. Schedule your tree trimming today by calling 317-298-8482 or scheduling online.
This post first appeared on https://pingstreeservice.com