Properly Thinning Your Tree Part 2: The Big Why – February 2019

It’s almost March which means that Spring is just around the corner. In the Tri-Cities, Springtime is usually the “windy season”. If you have tall trees on or around your property, you will want to be mindful of how to properly thin your trees to keep them safe in blustery conditions.

Why Should You Prune?
Improper tree architecture or structure is at the top of the list of tree failure causes. Most failed trees are removed at very high cost in built landscapes. Pruning is less expensive than removal, and if properly done, can prevent premature tree removal and extend tree life span. When done correctly, pruning is one of the most sustainable tree inputs. On the other hand, pruning can cause structural and health problems for the tree when done improperly.

Trees that become too big lack good mechanisms to cope with the spreading habit when the crown is raised off the ground. Many trees also are not well adapted to maintain the upright, multi-leader habit. Their mechanical and biological properties are inadequate to support these forms because this is very different from their natural habit. Many defects can arise such as bark inclusions, a serious defect rare in the moist forest, is common in the union of large branches on open-grown trees. This was the cause of the failure shown above.

In response to crown raising, low aggressive limbs and stems grow up at an angle into the permanent crown in a manner unfamiliar to most trees. They can break as they grow long and heavy. Other branches may sag and get in the way requiring their removal after growing quite large. These three conditions can lead to a shortened life from cracks, broken trees, and trunk decay.

We’re Here To Help!
Top Tree LLC is your best choice for any tree removal needs in Richland. All of our technicians are highly trained and properly certified. We are happy to answer any questions you have now or in the future.

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