Tree pruning and trimming are two of the most important tasks in tree maintenance that should be done routinely. While there are people who mistakenly consider these procedures to be the same, there are differences between them. Tree removal companies are aware of this and you should be too.

While leaves fall from the trees in autumn, branches that were originally covered in a dense canopy of foliage come out of hiding. Even if a lot of gardeners would not want to deal with the falling mess of leaves, this is a time when you can have tree canopies inspected. It is imperative to take note of the branches that should be removed from the trees. Read on to learn more.

Tree Trimming

Trimming is about removing excess branches to regularly maintain them in any shape and size for a pleasing look. Once you trim a plant, it will cause the remaining foliage to grow thicker and faster compared to if the plant were not trimmed. Most of the time, trimming is for maintaining the overall size of a shrub or tree. For instance, some homeowners use hedge shears in order to keep foundation plantings at 3 feet tall. Trimming also reduces plant crowding that has been closely planted together.

Normally, trimming is conducted yearly on your shrubs and trees. While trees grow taller and older, more branches start to form and shade out other parts of the tree. This will encourage new growth that eventually becomes too large for the structure of the tree, and this leads to structural failure. It will also split wood on larger trees. The trimming frequency will depend on how fast the tree grows and the climate conditions where it grows. In general, deciduous trees require more frequent trimming compared to evergreens since they grow a lot quicker.

Tree Pruning

Pruning is based on removing parts from plants. This is not done only for style and shape. Pruning is helpful in managing the growth and structure of trees and shrubs and removing dead or diseased stems and branches. It also encourages flower, fruit, and new foliage developments. This is especially true when it comes to woody plants such as shrubs and trees, and pruning is an excellent way to maintain their growth in a healthy way.

Equipment Used

For Trimming

Multiple kinds of equipment are for trimming, which depends on the scale of operation and tree size, and shrubs that are being cut. The equipment being used normally consists of hand tools or even power tools. Some examples are branch shears or loppers, chainsaws, and pole pruners. The best tool for tree trimming is branch shears that you operate manually. Branch shears provide a lot of efficiencies, and they are quick and clean if you use them the right way.

For Pruning

When it comes to pruning tools, handheld clippers, loppers, or shears with 6 to 10 inches blades can be used. Generally, the blade you will need depends on the thickness of the branch. Pruning equipment can include chainsaws and saws. Most of the time, a chainsaw is for cutting off large branches, and the shears and loppers are for pruning smaller branches. You can prune small trees and shrubs using handheld shears. The most effective and efficient tools for this are the long-handled loppers, which resemble heavy-duty and large scissors. It is not hard to find them in any gardening store, but sometimes you will need a professional to do the pruning for you.

You can contact tree cutting services Chevy Chase anytime if you need their help in pruning or trimming trees.