Winter is the perfect time to give your trees a little trim. It might seem odd to prune when it’s cold, but this actually helps them grow strong and healthy. Furthermore, it’s easier to see what you’re doing when the leaves are gone! Below are the best tree trimming tips arborists will implement and why winter is the best time to do this.
Why Winter Trimming Is Best
Trees are kind of like sleeping bears in the winter. They’re not growing as much, so they don’t get as stressed when you cut branches. This means they heal faster and are less likely to get sick. Winter trimming also helps you spot problems, such as dead or broken branches, which will fall and cause damage.
Getting Started: Tools and Safety
Before an arborist starts trimming, they will make sure they have the right tools. They’ll need some sharp hand pruners for small branches and loppers for bigger ones. If you have really high branches, they might need a pruning saw. Arborists will always wear gloves and safety glasses to protect themselves.
How to Trim Like a Pro
When professionals are trimming, they know that it’s important to make clean cuts. They don’t tear the branches, as this can hurt the tree. The pros will cut just above a branch collar, which is the swollen area where the branch grows from the trunk. This helps the tree heal quickly.
Shaping Up for Success
Trimming isn’t solely about removing dead branches. You can also use it to shape your trees and make them look better. For example, you might want to trim branches that are blocking your view or growing too close to your house.
Special Cases: Young and Old Trees
Young trees need a little extra care. You can trim them to help them develop a strong structure. For example, you might need to remove competing branches so the main trunk can grow strong. Older trees might have large, dead branches that need to be removed by a professional arborist.
Don’t Overdo It!
Arborists understand that it’s important not to trim too much at once. If you remove more than 25% of a tree’s branches, it can shock the tree and make it weak. It’s better to trim a little bit each year to keep your trees healthy and looking their best.
When following these tips, arborists can help your trees thrive and add beauty to your yard for years to come. For tree trimming and pruning in Boulder, CO, reach out to our friendly team at Roots Up Tree Company, and we will set you up for success and help your yard shine.
