Homeowners often ask, “Can pruning a tree kill it?” Pruning requires cutting specific branches from a tree, and each cut creates a wound. The concern about the effects of pruning on tree health is valid, but is plant death a possibility?
Georgia Tree Company is a leading provider of tree pruning in Milton, GA. Our post explains what you should know about tree pruning and whether it can cause plants to die.
What Is Tree Pruning?
Pruning is an essential aspect of routine tree care. During the service, tree care technicians identify specific branches, roots, or buds for removal due to damage, pest infestation, disease, or decay.
When technicians prune trees correctly, the service promotes healthy plant growth and improves their safety. Pruning also makes them more resistant to diseases and pests.
Can Pruning Damage Trees?
Despite its benefits, pruning can damage trees when done incorrectly. To achieve the desired effects, it’s necessary to utilize proper tree pruning practices.
The adverse effects of pruning on tree health can be substantial when amateurs chop off branches incorrectly. Potential effects include:
- Unusual growth patterns
- Sunscald
- Stunted growth
- Visible decay
Can pruning a tree kill it? It can, although it’s unlikely. Incorrect pruning practices are more likely to create an unattractive canopy, stunt the tree’s growth, and compromise its structural integrity.
Tips for Ensuring Safe Tree Pruning Practices
Now that you know the dangers of pruning trees incorrectly, follow these practices to maintain your trees’ health:
Work With a Certified Arborist
Certified arborists understand proper pruning practices, make precise cuts, and only remove necessary branches. By hiring a licensed tree care professional, you won’t need to worry about harming your tree or risking plant death after trimming. They’ll remove the right branches to promote plant health and longevity.
Avoid Cutting the Top of the Tree
The crown of a tree is the uppermost portion of its canopy. Removing it can kill or disfigure the tree. Certified arborists may thin the crown, but they won’t “top” it off.
Prune at the Right Time
For routine pruning, schedule the service according to the tree species’ ideal cutting season. For instance, redbuds, crape myrtles, and elms tolerate summer pruning well, while others benefit from wintertime pruning. If your tree poses a safety hazard due to storm damage or dead branches, contact a tree care company immediately for help.
Don’t Over-Prune Branches
Licensed professionals never prune more than 25% of a tree’s canopy. The ideal range is 5% to 10%.
Avoid Common Pruning Mistakes With Professional Tree Care
Unfortunately, the answer to “Can pruning a tree kill it?” is yes. Failing to recognize pruning mistakes that harm trees increases the risk of significant damage or death.
Georgia Tree Company offers a broad range of tree care solutions for residents in Milton, Georgia. Our certified specialists have an in-depth understanding of bad tree pruning. That’s why we use only industry-leading methods and practices to ensure optimal tree health and visual appeal.
Want to avoid the risks of improper tree pruning? Contact Georgia Tree Company at (404) 990-0010 to request services today.