COMMON MYTHS ABOUT TREE TRIMMING AND PRUNING

Common myths about tree care are misconceptions or incorrect beliefs that can lead to improper practices and potentially harm trees. It’s important to debunk these myths to ensure that trees are properly cared for, maintaining their health and contributing positively to the environment.

Here are explanations of some common myths about tree care:

1. Myth: “Trees Don’t Need Pruning”

• Explanation: Regular pruning is essential for tree health. Proper pruning removes dead or diseased branches, improves tree structure, and enhances air circulation. Neglecting pruning can lead to safety hazards and hinder healthy growth.

2. Myth: “Young Trees Don’t Require Care”

• Explanation: Young trees need careful attention to establish strong root systems and healthy growth. Proper watering, mulching, and protection from pests and diseases are crucial during their formative years.

3. Myth: “Topping Trees Helps Them Grow Faster”

• Explanation: Topping, or severe pruning, is harmful to trees. It removes a large portion of foliage, reducing the tree’s ability to produce energy through photosynthesis. Topped trees are more vulnerable to diseases and stress.

4. Myth: “Staking Trees Is Always Necessary”

• Explanation: While staking can provide temporary support for newly planted trees, it’s not always necessary. Improper staking can restrict natural movement, leading to weak root development and girdling.

5. Myth: “All Mulch Is Created Equal”

• Explanation: Mulching provides insulation, moisture retention, and weed suppression. However, improper mulching (such as piling mulch against the trunk) can cause moisture-related diseases and damage to tree bark.

6. Myth: “Trees Can Heal Their Own Wounds”

• Explanation: Trees compartmentalize wounds rather than healing them as animals do. Proper pruning cuts and care can facilitate the tree’s natural compartmentalization process, aiding in wound closure.

7. Myth: “Fertilizing Trees Solves All Problems”

• Explanation: Fertilization should be based on soil tests and specific tree needs. While it can address nutrient deficiencies, other factors like soil compaction and drainage issues must be considered for holistic care.

8. Myth: “Painting Tree Wounds Helps Prevent Decay”

• Explanation: Wound paints or sealants are unnecessary and can sometimes trap moisture and promote decay. Trees naturally compartmentalize wounds, and proper pruning is more effective for wound management.

9. Myth: “Tree Roots Only Grow Deep”

• Explanation: Tree roots grow both deep and wide, with a significant portion located in the top 12-18 inches of soil. Proper care of surface roots is crucial to tree health.

10. Myth: “Old Trees Are Too Late to Save”

• Explanation: Mature trees can benefit from care and interventions. Pruning, proper watering, and soil management can help extend the life of older trees.

11. Myth: “All Insects Are Harmful to Trees”

• Explanation: Insects play diverse roles in tree ecosystems. Some insects are beneficial, like pollinators, while others can be pests. Identifying the specific insect and its impact is essential for appropriate action.

12. Myth: “All Arborists Are the Same”

• Explanation: Certified arborists have specialized training and expertise, while unqualified individuals may lack proper knowledge. Hiring certified arborists ensures that trees receive professional care.

13. Myth: “Trees in the Wild Don’t Need Human Care”

• Explanation: Human activities impact natural ecosystems. Responsible tree care, even in natural settings, can help mitigate negative effects and promote healthy ecosystems.

By understanding and dispelling these common myths, property owners, managers, and arborists can make informed decisions and practices that promote the well-being of trees and contribute to sustainable tree management. Debunking myths about tree care is crucial to promoting proper tree health and management for several significant reasons:

• Accurate Knowledge: Myths often perpetuate incorrect practices that can harm trees. Debunking myths ensures that accurate and science-based information guides tree care practices, promoting the best possible outcomes.

• Preventive Care: Correcting misconceptions helps prevent potential problems before they arise. By understanding proper tree care, individuals can take preventive measures to maintain tree health and address issues proactively.

• Tree Longevity: Proper care practices, rooted in accurate information, contribute to the longevity of trees. Trees that receive appropriate care are more likely to thrive, resist diseases, and withstand environmental stresses.

• Environmental Impact: Healthy trees provide numerous environmental benefits, such as improving air quality, reducing energy consumption, and supporting wildlife habitats. Proper tree care ensures these benefits are maximized.

• Safety: Debunking myths reduces the risk of unsafe practices. By understanding the right way to care for trees, individuals can prevent safety hazards like falling branches or improperly managed trees.

• Property Value: Well-maintained trees enhance property aesthetics and value. Correcting myths and implementing proper care practices helps preserve property investments.

• Liability Reduction: Misguided practices due to myths can result in accidents or property damage. Debunking myths reduces the likelihood of legal liabilities arising from improper tree care.

• Professional Expertise: Certified arborists and tree care professionals possess specialized knowledge. Debunking myths encourages people to seek expert advice for tree care, benefiting both trees and property owners.

• Educational Opportunities: Correcting myths provides opportunities for learning and raising awareness about proper tree care. This education empowers individuals to make informed decisions and share knowledge with others.

• Sustainable Tree Management: Debunking myths supports sustainable practices that maintain a balance between human needs and environmental health. Sustainable tree management benefits current and future generations.

• Economic Savings: Proper tree care prevents unnecessary expenses. Addressing issues correctly from the start reduces the need for costly corrective measures or emergency interventions.

• Community Impact: Collectively dispelling myths fosters a culture of responsible tree care within communities. This contributes to the overall well-being of neighborhoods, parks, and urban landscapes.

• Holistic Understanding: Debunking myths encourages individuals to understand trees as complex living organisms that require careful consideration. This holistic perspective fosters empathy and a deeper connection to nature.

• Adaptation to Change: As scientific knowledge evolves, practices may change. Debunking myths ensures that care practices align with the latest research and understanding of tree biology and ecology.

In essence, debunking myths empowers individuals to make informed decisions about tree care, whether they are property owners, managers, or arborists. By cultivating a culture of accurate information and responsible practices, we collectively contribute to healthier urban and natural environments, where trees thrive and provide a multitude of benefits.

Exploring misconceptions and myths surrounding tree care is an enlightening way to uncover common misunderstandings that often lead to improper practices. By addressing these myths, we can better understand the complexities of tree health and management.

Here are some prevalent misconceptions and myths related to tree care:

1. Misconception: “Trees Don’t Need Pruning”

• Myth: Some believe that trees can thrive without pruning.
• Reality: Proper pruning is essential for removing dead, diseased, or hazardous branches, improving tree structure, and promoting healthy growth.

2. Misconception: “Trees Can Heal Their Own Wounds”

• Myth: Trees can naturally heal wounds, similar to how animals heal.
• Reality: While trees compartmentalize wounds, proper pruning and care aid in the process, preventing decay and promoting wound closure.

3. Misconception: “Topping Trees Helps Them Grow Faster”

• Myth: Topping, or severe pruning, stimulates growth and improves tree health.
• Reality: Topping weakens trees, reduces energy production, and increases susceptibility to diseases and stress.

4. Misconception: “All Insects Are Harmful to Trees”

• Myth: All insects that interact with trees are detrimental.
• Reality: Insects play diverse roles in tree ecosystems; some are beneficial for pollination and natural pest control.

5. Misconception: “Fertilizing Trees Solves All Problems”

• Myth: Fertilizing trees can fix any issues they face.
• Reality: Fertilization should be based on soil tests and specific tree needs, addressing underlying problems is crucial.

6. Misconception: “Staking Trees Is Always Necessary”

• Myth: All newly planted trees need to be staked for support.
• Reality: Staking should be limited to cases where the tree requires temporary support, and improper staking can be harmful.

7. Misconception: “Old Trees Are Too Late to Save”

• Myth: Mature trees are beyond help and should be removed.
• Reality: Mature trees can benefit from proper care, which can extend their lifespan and contribute to ecosystem health.

8. Misconception: “All Mulch Is Created Equal”

• Myth: All types of mulch are equally beneficial for trees.
• Reality: Proper mulching practices, including the right depth and placement, are crucial for tree health.

9. Misconception: “Tree Roots Only Grow Deep”

• Myth: Tree roots only grow deep into the soil.
• Reality: Tree roots grow both deep and wide, with many important roots located in the upper soil layers.

10. Misconception: “Painting Tree Wounds Helps Prevent Decay”

• Myth: Applying wound paint or sealants to tree wounds prevents decay.
• Reality: Wound paints are unnecessary and can sometimes trap moisture, hindering the natural healing process.

11. Misconception: “All Arborists Are the Same”

• Myth: Anyone with some knowledge of trees can provide professional tree care.
• Reality: Certified arborists possess specialized training and expertise, ensuring proper tree care practices.

12. Misconception: “Trees in the Wild Don’t Need Human Care”

• Myth: Trees in natural settings can thrive without human intervention.
• Reality: Human activities impact natural ecosystems, and responsible care can mitigate negative effects.

By exploring and debunking these misconceptions, we enhance our understanding of the complexities of tree care. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions, practice responsible tree management, and contribute to healthier urban and natural environments.

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Apple Trees Pruning

When an apple tree becomes too big for a section or is in danger of falling because of disease or age, tree pruning or tree removal may be your only option. As tree pruning and arboriculture experts, the tree trimming crews have everything you need to get the job done and offer both a one off service or ongoing maintenance programs, as required.

Tree Pruning

Whether your objective is to promote tree growth or better fruit production, or to improve your view and let more sunlight in, our tree trimming crews are qualified and experienced to do the job.

Pruning a tree in a confined residential section can require a great deal of skill. Key considerations need to be given to avoid damage to surrounding buildings, water pipes, power lines and existing vegetation.

Using modern climbing techniques, our arborists can access trouble spots in the tree canopy and remove only necessary branches, without damaging any surrounding branches. Crown reductions and pruning to improve structural integrity are part of our everyday work.

In particularly confined spaces, limbs can be lowered down in small sections using specialized roping techniques, cranes, cherry pickers and even helicopters for more complicated sites.

Hedge Trimming: The hedge trimming service caters for hedges of all heights and sizes. With the right equipment for removal of hedges, we make light work of all shapes and sizes of hedge trimming.

Green Asset Management: Managing your green assets on an ongoing basis is the smartest and most economical way to maximize tree health and vitality.

Pruning around a Power line

Trees that grow too high may stretch towards electrical cables and cause problems. Tree branches can also obstruct views. In short, tree removal is needed when these situations occur. Homeowners may be compelled to take away trees to make way for a particular construction project. You have the option to cut down unwanted trees provided you have the expertise and equipment. Otherwise, get the services of professional tree removal services. These companies will give the service you like for a minimal cost.

The process of cutting trees is a complicated task. It has to be carried out by professionals who can cut down trees without destroying any structures. The task is more dangerous if the trees stand near electrical posts and wires. Trees located near edifices and fences are not easy to remove while those located in open spaces are easier to remove. Costs depend on the tallness, thickness, form and quantity of branches.

Expert cutters know how to take care of cutting timber. These service providers do not simply cut a tree without a plan. Measurements have to be taken at the start so that the falling log does not hit any person, house, vehicle or electric post and wires. Trees should be cut at the correct angle so it goes down on the proper direction.

Stump removal is also difficult. It calls for the work of experts to avoid damages. Tree cutting services know how to operate complicated gear such as cranes, special ladders and ropes. These people also consider the safety factor and disease control aspects so you can be assured of a complete service even if you have to spend some money.

Tackling the job yourself can be very dangerous, and specialist equipment is needed to avoid electrocution. The expertise, equipment and procedures (including significant public liability insurance cover) to maintain the electrical network from any possible interruptions is essential and needed when dealing with trees (apple tree) around a power line.

A crew is employed by a number of major power networks across the country to scope and audit power networks, and to carry out line clearing.

How to Prune Apple Trees

New to pruning? Then we will cover all you need to know about how to prune apple trees, including why, when, which, with what, and how in eight easy steps.

Why to Prune Apple Trees

We prune apple trees for four main reasons.

First, to make the tree easy to maintain and harvest by controlling the height and shape.

Secondly, to maintain a healthy tree by removing dead, diseased or damaged wood.

Thirdly, to improve air circulation which reduces pests and diseases.

Fourthly, to let sunlight reach the fruits so they can grow healthy and large.

When to Prune Apple Trees

It is best to prune an apple tree when it’s still dormant, this means early spring, about two weeks after the late frost. Not only are the buds easier to see and cut, but the cuts will also heal more quickly.

If you prune in the fall, then new growth will start but will be damaged by the cold winter. If you prune in the early winter, then the open cut can be susceptible to diseases.

If you see dead, diseased, or damaged, wood, you should cut these off as soon as you notice, no matter the time in the year so that the tree isn’t damaged any further.

Which Apple Trees to Prune

Wait to do the heavy pruning in the third year of growth after planting since this will allow the tree to establish itself. If your apple tree provides a lot of shade, then it needs to be pruned.

When there is a lot of pruning to do, then space out the pruning over several seasons.

What to Prune Apple Trees With

The tools to use depends on which type of branch you are cutting. In all cases though, be sure to sterilize the tools with hot soapy water or disinfectant to prevent any damage or infection.

For small branches and twigs, use hand pruners
.
For large branches about 1” thick, use loppers. These provide good leverage.

For branches about 3” thick and more, use a saw.

How to Prune Apple Trees

Step 0: Aim for a Central Leader, Pyramidal Form

Apple trees should have a pyramidal and conical shape, with shorter branches at the top so that they can allow sunlight to reach the lower branches.

Additionally, apple trees should be pruned with a central leader form, with one central branch growing vertically from the trunk.

Step 1: Remove Any Dead, Diseased, or Damaged Limbs (3 D’s)

You know if a branch is dead if it’s brittle and breaks very easily.

You usually know if a branch is diseased if the wood is a different color than the other branches around it.

You will see a damaged branch when it has partially broken from the weight of the fruits. Additionally, when two branches have crossed and rubbed against one another this can also damage the wood.

Once you have identified the branches with the 3 D’s, then cut the wood back to the nearest bud where the wood is still healthy.

Step 2: Prune Competing Central Leader Branches

Your apple tree should have one central leading branch which grows vertically from the trunk.

If there are multiple central leading branches, then choose the healthier and stronger one and cut the rest so that the tree remains strong.

Step 3: Prune Non-Primary Scaffold Branches

Your apple tree should have 2-6 primary scaffold branches (depending on the size of the tree) which connect to the central lead branch and are evenly spaced around it.

If two scaffold branches are too close to one another, remove one.

If you look at the tree from the top, it should look like a star.

These scaffold branches should have a 45 to 50 degree angle from the trunk.

When the angle is less than this, then the branch will fall from the weight of the fruit.

When the angle is more than this, then there won’t be as much fruit on the branches.

Step 4: Prune Suckers

When shoots or branches grow near the base of the trunk prune them so that the shape is preserved. Suckers shouldn’t grow below the canopy of the tree.

Step 5: Prune Downward & Inward Growing Branches

First, identify the branches growing downward. Then prune them since they won’t be able to bear the weight of the fruit.
Also prune any branches growing inward so that they don’t rub against other branches.

Step 6: Prune the Whorls

Whorls are places where three or more small branches grow from the same location. Once you identify the whorls then choose the healthier and strongest one, and prune the rest. After all, the branch won’t be able to support all of the small branches growing in this one location.

Step 7: Prune Back All Branches

In order for the stems to become thicker and develop flowers cut all branches back by ⅓ of its original length. However, make sure to make these cuts just above a bud that faces outward in order for the tree to have a healthy shape.

Step 8: Thin the Buds

Lastly, thin out the fruiting buds so that they are 4-6” apart. This will ensure that the branch bears just enough weight from the apples.
And voila! You are done! If you have any questions, we are here to help!

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