A lot of people think about pruning their trees in terms of aesthetics. You make a few cuts here or there to make your tree look neat and tidy. But people don’t always realize that making strategic cuts to a tree is greatly beneficial to its health.
Of course, that’s assuming that pruning is performed properly.
While people often assume DIY tree pruning isn’t that complicated, it can actually be a lot more involved than people tend to think.
There’s also a serious risk factor involved in tackling the pruning of a tall tree.
In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between DIY vs. professional tree pruning and why you might want to consider leaving it to the pros.
Why DIY Tree Pruning Might Not be Worth It
There is a highly strategic way to prune trees that involves making the proper cuts. But when mistakes are made, it’s actually possible to harm the tree’s health. Here are a few common DIY tree pruning mistakes that are made when homeowners don’t know the proper way to prune.
Pruning Without a Plan
When you prune a tree, there has to be a plan. Pruning should be done to clean out diseased, dying, or dead branches that are negatively impacting the tree’s overall health. But if you haphazardly make cuts to healthy branches, you could potentially harm the tree rather than help it.
Using the Wrong Tools
Another common DIY tree pruning mistake is using the wrong tools. The types of pruning tools that are used can also have an impact on the results. Some trees will even require hand pruning.
In addition to the “right” tools, you also want to be sure that you’re using tools that are in good shape. If tools are dull they will cause subpar pruning cuts.
Pruning at the Wrong Time
The timing of pruning is also important. There are certain times of the year when some tree species can be pruned. Pruning at the wrong time can actually prevent certain trees from blooming.
Falling or Getting Hurt
Finally, as we mentioned at the start, there’s a serious safety factor involved in tree services like pruning.
This can be very dangerous work.
Personal safety equipment is a must. You’re working with serious tools and also making cuts in branches that are going to fall. Hard hats, safety goggles, and other equipment are critical.
But it’s also important to keep in mind that climbing a tree can be very risky. Pruning from a ladder or a roof can be outright dangerous. A tree professional will use a lifting mechanism and a fall protection system to prevent accidents.
Investing in Professional Tree Pruning in New Hampshire, Maine, and Northeastern Massachusetts
Because it’s so important that tree pruning is performed with precision and care, your best bet is to invest in professional tree services.
Keep in mind that even some so-called “professionals” can make mistakes. But even one bad pruning job can lead to a tree’s decline. While it may not die, it can negatively impact its development and/or structure.
This is why it’s critical to find high-quality, tree services in Southern NH, ME, and MA. Look for a company that is extensively trained and that has Certified Arborists on staff. It’s important that you are working with a professional who truly knows trees.
When you make the wise choice to invest in professional tree pruning, you can feel confident that you’re not only going to get the best results but that you will also be removing all of that burden (and risk) from your shoulders.
This is important when it comes to protecting your investment in your New England property’s trees. Soon they will be on their way to better health.
At Seacoast Tree Care, we’re committed to preserving the health and beauty of trees by performing vital services like tree pruning, the right way. When you make a wise choice in tree pruning services, you’ll ultimately take an important step in protecting the value of your property’s trees.
Ready for safer and healthier trees at your Southern NH, ME, or MA home? Request your consultation and get a free quote for tree pruning services. We service properties in and around Stratham, NH, Kittery, ME, and Haverhill, MA. By making a wise choice, you’ll know your trees are in good hands.
