Tree Pruning – Why It Should Be Done by an Arborist
Aside from being beautiful ornamental features for any home landscape, healthy and properly maintained trees also provide great benefits to homeowners as they help increase privacy and add shade. However, if neglected or improperly cared for, trees can easily become hazardous and cause serious injuries and property damage.
When it comes to proper tree maintenance, pruning is the most common procedure. It helps remove dead or diseased branches, reduces burdensome weight from the tree, and promotes new and healthy growth. However, like many other processes, tree trimming is only beneficial when done right. For this very reason, it is highly recommended to leave tree pruning in the hands of a certified arborist.
Arborists are specialists that understand the needs of trees and are trained to handle them properly. A certified arborist will analyze the condition of your trees and determine the type of pruning necessary to maintain or improve their health, appearance, and safety. The techniques the professional may use are the following:
- Removing limbs that interfere with building facades, wires, gutters, chimneys, roofs. or windows, or that obstruct sidewalks or streets;
- Eliminating branches that rub each other;
- Removing weak or dead limbs that pose a hazard or may lead to decay;
- Removing branches to increase light penetration in the house;
- Creating a better structure to lessen wind resistance and reduce the potential for storm damage;
- Improving the shape or silhouette of the tree.
Once the pruning is done, the arborist should give you some advice on how to further take care of your trees regarding watering, fertilizing, pesticide applications, and other processes that will help maintain their overall health and beauty.
Choosing the Right Arborist for the Job
When choosing an arborist, it is important to check if the professional is certified. Certified arborists are experienced and have been through extensive training covering all aspects of tree care. Being a member of professional organizations is also a sign that the arborist is up to date with the latest techniques and information on the matter.
A reputable arborist will also provide personal and property damage insurance as well as workers compensation insurance. This will prevent you from having to pay large amounts of money for damages that may be caused by uninsured individuals claiming to be experts. Last but not least, make sure to carefully read the contract provided by the arborist and don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have.