For a lot of people, the difference between trimming and pruning a tree is minimal or irrelevant. For others, trimming is about aesthetics while pruning is about supporting the tree’s health. Actually, both actions help the tree. A tree that’s symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing in all seasons is a tree that’s healthy. Here are ways trimming and pruning help your trees.
Trimming Takes Away Sick and Dead Branches
Sickness and infestations may start in a branch or even a leaf, but they can quickly spread to the rest of the tree. Dead branches are unsightly, and even if they’re not full of diseases or home to pests, they attract them. Trimming promotes the tree’s overall health by stopping the spread of maladies throughout the tree.
Protects the Tree and Other Objects From Storms
Trees whose branches are allowed to grow unchecked are vulnerable to storms. Pruning and trimming limbs that look like they’re most likely to snap off in a wind or ice storm, or even under the weight of a lot of snow, saves the tree from injury. Not only this, this sort of trimming can spare homes, people, power lines and other items if a large limb falls during a storm.
Brings in Light and Air
Trimming away a tangle of branches in the middle of the tree frees the space up to receive much-needed air and sunlight. It not only makes the tree look good, but a lack of good air circulation and sunlight promotes disease and attracts pests.
Helps the Tree Grow Straight and Tall
Top-heavy trees not only don’t get enough air and sunlight, but the weight of too many branches can cause them to lean over. If the lean is too severe, the tree is at risk of toppling altogether. Moreover, the excess branches can be weak and subject to snapping off. A storm isn’t even necessary to cause some of these branches to fall. They can snap off without warning, which makes them dangerous. Trimming and pruning reduce the branches to a few that are strong and balanced. The tree can now direct nutrients to just these branches, which strengthens the entire tree.
This sort of trimming and pruning is why you should also allow a professional to treat your younger trees. Early pruning makes sure that the sapling has a strong structure. Continued pruning and trimming make sure that the tree remains strong throughout its life.
Professional arborists are always ready and willing to help you keep your trees healthy. Give us a call at West Coast Tree Care Inc. for trimming and pruning services in San Carlos, CA.
