“I’ve seen a lot of DIY pruning advice online. Is it something I can do on my own?”
DIY tree pruning can be appropriate for certain situations, but it comes with its set of challenges and risks.
At the very least, safety for yourself and your property should be the primary consideration whether to prune yourself or not, especially if you’re aiming to tackle a limb that’s high up in the canopy.
Of course you can do it yourself, no-one is stopping you, but you’ve got to weigh up the risks. Danger to your property, injury risk to yourself, and long term damage to your trees through improper pruning.
Here’s what you need to know about pruning:
#1 Purpose of Pruning
Before you make any cuts, you need to have a clear purpose. Are you pruning for aesthetics, to remove diseased or damaged branches, to improve the tree’s structure, or to clear away hazards? Identifying the reason will dictate how you should prune.
#2 Understand the Basics
Collar and Branch Bark Ridge:
When pruning, you should be familiar with the ‘branch collar’ and the ‘branch bark ridge.’ These are natural protective zones on the tree. Always avoid cutting into them to ensure optimal wound closure or compartmentalization of dead tissue. Like we always say.. ”trees don’t heal, they seal!”
Heading vs. Thinning:
When speaking with clients we like to refer to this as Branch Reduction vs. Branch Removal. Reductions involve cutting a branch back to a smaller branch, which should be at least one-third the diameter of the branch being reduced. This is done to redirect growth, manage weight on the end of a branch, or to achieve specific clearance objectives. Branch removal, on the other hand, entails completely removing the branch, typically at its point of attachment. Both techniques can be used to achieve similar objectives or purposes in pruning, but they avoid making larger cuts. For this reason, reductions are generally preferred.
#3 Right Tools for the Job
Sharp and clean pruning tools reduce injury to the tree and make your job easier. Examples include hand pruners for small branches, loppers for medium branches, and a pruning saw for larger branches.
#4 Safety First
If a branch is high up, over a structure, near a power line, or if it requires the use of a ladder, it’s best to call a professional. The risks involved in such scenarios are significant.
See Related Post: A deep dive into pruning techniques
#5 Timing
Deciduous trees are often best pruned during dormancy (late winter to early spring) as it minimizes stress and the spread of diseases. However, there are exceptions; for instance, oaks in areas with oak wilt should only be pruned in the coldest months to prevent the spread of the disease. To effectively influence the structural development of young trees, it is ideal to prune them at the end of summer. This timing minimizes new growth in response to pruning.
Are there common mistakes people make when trying to prune themselves?
Absolutely. Some common DIY pruning mistakes include:
- Topping or Lion-tailing: Topping involves cutting the top off trees, leading to weak structure and poor aesthetics. Lion-tailing is stripping most branches off leaving only a tuft at the end, which can cause limb failures due to the added weight and reduced branch strength.
- Flush Cutting: This is when you cut too close to the trunk, removing the branch collar. It exposes the tree to potential decay and reduces its ability to heal.
- Leaving Stub: Conversely, leaving too long of a stub when pruning can also be harmful as it hinders proper healing and can be an entry point for diseases.
- Over-pruning: Removing more than 25% of a tree’s foliage in a single season can significantly stress the tree.
When to hire a professional for your pruning needs?
For small trees or shrubs and straightforward tasks, DIY pruning can be feasible if you educate yourself and use the right tools. However, for larger trees, complicated situations, or if you’re unsure, it’s always best to hire a Certified Arborist. The Siskiyou Tree experts team are trained to recognize hazards, diseases, and structural issues, and we have the equipment and expertise to handle the job safely and effectively.
Remember, a poorly pruned tree can take years to recover, and mistakes can sometimes be irreversible. Trees are a long-term investment in our environment and property. Whether you choose to prune yourself or hire a professional, always prioritize the health and safety of the tree and its surroundings.