Nature has its own way of trimming trees in the forest. Some tall trees for example, shade lower branches forming a collar at the branch base. This restricts the flow of moisture and vital nutrients resulting in the withering of leaves that eventually die and the branch drops off.

Animals too play their part in trimming trees by breaking weak branches. Unlike in the forests, we have to take care of the trees in our Miami area neighborhoods. Trimming is one of the most important aspects to put into consideration before tree cutting. The best time to inspect the trees shade cover is during autumn when the trees have shed their leaves; branches that need to be removed are also visible. A good resource for tree trimming service is http://www.miamitreeserviceexperts.com/

  • If the desired effect is to have vigorous growth during spring, then you should trim the tree during late winter. This period is also known as dormancy period. When the coldest part of winter has passed you can start trimming.
  • If you want to slow the growth of the branches that you don’t want, summer trimming works well. Apart from the branches growth being slowed down, the overall growth of the tree is slowed down. The effect is achieved because the leaf surface is reduced thus the food sent to the roots is reduced.
  • For flowering trees, spring is the best time to trim since that’s when the flowers fade.
  • For trees that bloom in mid to late summer, trim them in winter and early spring.
  • Never trim during fall because the healing process of wounds is slow and might cause the decay fungi to spread their spores very fast.
How to trim a tree

When correctly done, trimming can help trees and on the other hand it may harm them when wrongly done. The most likely result of wrong trimming is rotting. Remember to always use the right tools and protective gear when trimming a tree.

The best approach is the below three step method.

First step: Cut one or two feet from the tree trunk. It is advisable to start from the underside but don’t go too deep, just about a third way through.

Second step: Just outside the first cut, make the second cut but this time round cut all the way through. As you saw your way through, the branch will break. The bark will not tear down into the trunk of the first cut on the underside. The first cut prevents the bark from tearing and creating a wound that pest and diseases will enter from.

Third step: The last cut is made at the collar where the branch and collar meet. Make sure you cover the area. The flair should be apparent after making the final cut. A new bark and scar tissue will fill after the flair heals. A doughnut form will emerge where you made the cut when the tree is healing.

Don’t bind the cut attempting to stop the bleeding since it may result to more damage.

Resource: http://www.miamitreeserviceexperts.com/