Pruning has been called “one of the best, worst maintenance practices” performed on trees. The practice of tree pruning creates wounds that can significantly impact the trees if not handled by a professional. Improper cutting of a tree can cause severe damage or even the death of a tree, so it is important to understand the proper techniques and how a tree responds to pruning. However, when done correctly, tree pruning can be one of the best things you can do to help a tree flourish. In most cases, a specialist should be contacted for tree pruning in Waterloo.Reasons for Pruning There are many reasons for pruning a tree. The most common reasons typically include aesthetics, structure, and safety. It is common to prune a tree to improve its appearance by reducing the length of fast-growing stems or unwanted growth. In some circumstances, trees are pruned to maintain a desired shape or size to fit a location. This is often due to poor placement or the wrong selection of a tree for the intended space. Some trees may need pruning to remove dead or dying branches. Branches affected by insect damage or disease may also be cut to defend against the pest’s spread and prevent further damage. One of the most important reasons to prune a tree is to reduce the risk of tree failure, especially in the crown. By removing defective branches or those damaged by a storm, you can also minimize the risk of injury from falling branches. When to Start Pruning Planning the right tree in the first place can reduce the need for continual pruning. Know the mature tree’s size for its location, and determine if it will fit in the intended space as it grows. Once the correct tree has been chosen, some simple pruning should be done while the tree is young and newly planted for proper development. An older, larger tree often requires more work to prune and can cause structural concerns and other problems, including clearance, safety and risk. Depending on the situation and type of tree, there are different times and frequencies to prune a tree. If you don’t want to have to worry about pruning, there are reduced maintenance trees available. Start out by purchasing a tree from a reputable nursery or garden center where they can offer advice on the best tree for your needs. Art and Science The timing of tree pruning is crucial in having a healthy tree. It is both an art form and a science and should be done using the right tools by professionals who know where to place the cuts in the proper location. Tree pruning all too often harms a tree when it is not done correctly. This is why it has gained a reputation as one of the best, worst maintenance practices. When looking for tree pruning in Waterloo, our specialists can help advise you on which trees need pruning and get the job done safely with the least amount of damage to the tree. Contact us today for a free quote! Steve Martin I have a profound interest in trees and their natural beauty. I grew up on a hobby farm ten minutes north of Waterloo and spent many winters in the bush collecting firewood to heat our family home. It was definitely work, so I wasn’t always eager as a young boy to help my father and big brother, but I learned to love the process... READ MORE