10 Reasons To Prune Your Trees Before Spring

Posted on: 13 January 2023

Late winter into very early spring is the prime time to schedule a tree trimming. Don't skip the pruning this year, especially if any of the following pertains to your landscape trees.

1. Weak Growth Patterns 

Weak branches are more likely to break in a storm, and they will often cause damage to neighboring branches as well. Crossed branches are one of the more common examples of a weak growth pattern. The crossing branch will rub against the other, opening up a wound that can lead to further health problems. 

2. Deadwood Threats

Any dead or dying branches up in the crown should be pruned out immediately. Large branches may pose the greatest threat, but even smaller branches can cause injury or property damage if they break and fall. 

3. Blocked Paths

Branches low on the trunk can interfere with foot and vehicle traffic if they are near a walk or road. Fortunately, your tree trimmers can limb up the branches, which means removing the lower branches so the canopy of the tree is effectively raised higher than the passing traffic below. 

4. Overhanging Branches

Trees growing near buildings may have branches that overhang too closely to the roof or building walls. These branches can scrape and bang against the building, which can result in major damage to roofing, siding, and windows. A quick trim protects the tree and your home or outbuilding. 

5. Leaning Trunks

A leaning trunk is always a cause for concern, but especially if it's a newly developed problem. Sometimes trimming out some of the crown will reduce weight on the trunk. Your tree service can then secure the tree with a stake until it can grow more extensive anchoring roots.

6. Symmetry Issues

Uneven crowns can make a tree look unbalanced and unattractive, and the tree is more likely to blow down due to uneven weight distribution within the branches. Thinning the heavy side and trimming to shape can better distribute the weight and improve symmetry.

7. Size Management

Sometimes a tree simply needs to take up less room. Pruning before the tree grows too big is ideal, as annual cutting back can prevent it from becoming too large. If the tree is too big already, then it can be pruned back gradually over several years. 

8. Understory Problems

Dense tree canopies can shade out gardens and lawn grasses below so they grow poorly. Trimming and thinning the crown will let some light and moisture through. 

9. Slow Root Development

If the roots grow more slowly than the crown, then the tree may not be able to take in sufficient nutrients and water to support the excess branches. Trimming can be done to keep root and crown size in balance. 

10. Utility Line Concerns

Never underestimate the risk of tree branches in electric lines, as they can cause fire, electrocution, or power outages. Only a professional should trim branches if they are already in the lines. 

Contact a tree trimming service to schedule a consultation. 

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