Tree pruning is one of the most important ways to promote healthy, safe, and attractive tree growth. However, if not performed properly, it can do more harm than good. To help you understand the process better, McAllister Tree Service, a certified arborist in Cornelia, GA, explains the do’s and don'ts of tree pruning in the sections below.

Do:

Prune at the Right Time

Prune non-blooming trees in the late fall—after they've dropped their leaves—or during winter while they are still in dormancy. Prune summer-blooming trees in late winter before the thaw and spring-blooming trees once they've bloomed. It’s ideal to perform tree pruning during the colder months since there’s less sap. This means there will be fewer opportunities for pest or disease infestation and a better chance for the wounds to heal quickly.

Inspect Trees for Hazards

At least once per season, make the rounds, and inspect your trees for pests and diseases. Look for insect activity in the soil, on the leaves, and in the trunk. Look for cracks and decay in the bark and fungi growing on the trunk or around the roots. If you notice signs of infestation or disease, contact a tree service immediately.

Don't:

Over Prune

Don't prune without a good reason, and don't remove more than 1/4 of the foliage in a single season. The foliage, through photosynthesis, transforms sunlight into nourishment and without enough remaining leaves, the tree could weaken and become vulnerable to pests, disease, and even “sunscald,” the plant version of sunburn.

Prune Around Power Lines

Always leave a safe margin of space of 10 feet or more around power lines when pruning. Because high voltage wires are dangerous, it's better to avoid pruning altogether—just let the experts handle it.

Proper tree pruning keeps your trees healthy and removes dead or dying limbs that would otherwise draw moisture and nutrients that are better directed elsewhere. For help from a certified arborist, contact McAllister Tree Service in Cornelia, GA. They've been in business for more than 20 years, so they have the experience and expertise to solve nearly any pest or disease problem. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (706) 778-7527 to schedule an appointment.