Tag: tree trimming

The Benefits of a Tree Service

Ebony Frank Tree Service , , , , , ,

Georgetown Texas Tree Service can help you manage your trees by removing dead branches, pruning overgrown trees, and fertilizing them. They also offer emergency services if your property is in danger after severe weather.

Finding a tree service with the right qualifications and insurance is important. Look for ISA certification and workers’ compensation insurance.

Tree Service

Professional tree surgeons are highly trained in the care and maintenance of trees. They have extensive knowledge of the intricate relationships between different species, and are able to identify and address problems within a given ecosystem. Their skills are essential in preserving and enhancing our natural environment, including biodiversity. They are also skilled in the art of pruning and removing dead, diseased or otherwise dangerous trees.

In addition to performing regular tree health checks, tree surgeons are also skilled in assessing the structural integrity of trees. This is important because a poorly maintained or damaged tree can easily fall over, causing significant damage to property and injury to individuals. This is why it is vital to hire a reputable tree service that has experienced and knowledgeable professionals on staff.

Before a tree surgeon can perform any work on your property, it is essential to find out whether they have the required credentials. Look for a company that has a good reputation and is licensed and insured. In addition, make sure that the tree surgeon is certified as an arborist or has a similar qualification from an accredited institution. Additionally, they should have years of on-the-job experience and a comprehensive understanding of the safety precautions that need to be taken when working with large trees.

Tree surgeons are equipped with modern tree cutting equipment that is safe and efficient to use around homes and backyards. They can quickly cut down large overhanging branches that block windows, driveways or roads. They also know how to remove tree stumps and clean up the site after the job is done. In this way, they help keep your home and neighborhood safer by preventing damage from falling trees.

When selecting a tree service, make sure that the company offers insurance for their workers and vehicles. This ensures that you will be compensated if any damages are caused during the course of their work. Also, look for a company that provides an accurate quote before beginning the work.

A tree is a big investment and it’s essential to find the right person to take care of it. Hiring a qualified tree surgeon is the best way to avoid costly repairs and to preserve the beauty of your home or business.

If you need emergency tree service, you should call a company that is licensed and insured. This company will send a team of arborists to your home or office to trim the trees and shrubs on your property. They will also remove unwanted branches and stumps. They can also help you select the right trees for your property, and they will provide tips on how to care for them. Additionally, they will provide you with a free estimate for the services you need.

 Its professional staff has over 18 years of experience in the field. The team can assist you with trimming, shaping, and topping trees. In addition to this, they can also prune your plants and hedges. Its crews can also handle emergency storm work, and they can provide you with firewood and land clearing services.

Branches and stumps can cause accidents in your yard, so it is essential to have them removed by a reputable tree company. You should also consider hiring a company that is licensed, insured, and bonded to do this. These companies will provide a safe and effective removal service and ensure the safety of their employees and customers. They will also inspect the condition of your trees before they begin the work and offer recommendations for future care.

A family-owned tree service provides residential and commercial clients with pruning and trimming solutions. Its ISA-certified arborists will inspect your trees and create a plant health care plan that suits your needs. Its professionals can also address issues such as diseases and out-of-control growth by delivering removal, pruning, bracing, and cabling services. They can also conduct stump grinding and land clearing services.

The city maintains a 24-hour, seven-day emergency tree service. The service is available to residents and businesses in all five boroughs of . If you notice a dead tree in the street, park, or public space, report it to 311. will send an inspector to evaluate the site and determine if the tree can be saved.

Trimming services help trees grow strong and healthy by removing dead branches, encouraging new growth, and shaping the canopy. They can also remove tree limbs that are overgrown and interfering with buildings or power lines. In addition, trimming can prevent injuries and property damage during storms by removing branches that could fall and cause damage or injury. A professional tree service will have the proper equipment and safety protocols to perform this task safely and efficiently.

The cost of tree trimming services can vary depending on the size and type of tree, as well as the level of pruning required. Smaller trees are usually less expensive to trim than larger ones because they have fewer branches. However, it’s important to consider the overall health of the tree and the desired outcome of the trimming project when determining an estimate. For example, a tree that requires more extensive pruning may require a higher price because it may need to be removed entirely or partially.

Choosing a tree service that has experience and expertise in performing this type of work can save you money and time in the long run. You should always compare multiple quotes to find the best price without sacrificing quality work. It’s also a good idea to choose a company with a strong reputation and positive customer reviews.

The location of the property and the complexity of the job also play a role in the cost of trimming services. For example, trees in rural areas are often more challenging to access than those in urban neighborhoods. In addition, larger trees typically produce more debris than smaller ones, which can increase cleanup costs.

Another factor to consider is whether or not the client wants to add extra services to the initial trim, such as fungus removal or pest control. These services can add up quickly and should be included in the initial quote. In addition, it’s important to include any additional costs related to hauling debris into the estimate. This can be especially costly for customers with large quantities of waste.

When dealing with pests, tree service companies have the right product solutions to get rid of them without harming your plants. They can also expunge invasive evergreens like the spruce budworm and pine beetle to prevent them from spreading to other greeneries in your neighborhood. This can be an important part of maintaining a beautiful garden or property.

When looking for a company to perform pest extermination, make sure they have the proper credentials and certifications. They should also be licensed and insured. This will help you in the event of any problems during or after the service. Also, they should be professional and prompt. They should show up at the agreed upon time and, if they’re running late, be sure to let you know so that you can reschedule your appointment.

In addition to pest control, a reputable tree service will offer maintenance services for both trees and shrubs. This will include watering, trimming the leaves, getting rid of pests, and treating diseases. This will ensure that your trees stay healthy and that they can thrive on your property.

Choosing a reputable tree service can save you a lot of money in the long run. You can expect them to do a thorough job and keep your trees and shrubs in tip-top shape. They will also provide you with valuable advice about the prosperity of your plants and how to maintain them properly. They will also do a thorough inspection of your property to reduce risks and improve safety.

The Benefits of Palm Tree Skinning

Wesley Kline Tree Service , , , ,

Palms require little maintenance throughout their lifespan, but skinning is one task that should be conducted each year. It enhances the aesthetic and protects the tree’s health by eliminating rodents and pests using dead fronds as roosts.

Begin at the bottom of the tree and work your way up, avoiding the youngest fronds. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a professional for this important job. For more information just visit this Website.

Palm trees are beautiful additions to any landscape but must be trimmed regularly to keep them looking their best. If fronds die, they can cause the tree to look sparse and unhealthy. Leaving dead fronds on the tree can also create a fire hazard, attract pests, and create an eyesore in your yard. Palm tree skinning, or shaving, removes these dead fronds from the palm tree’s trunk. The result is a cleaner, more attractive tree that looks newer and more tropical.

Before you begin pruning, ensure the climbing equipment you use to reach the fronds is safe and secure. Ladders, step stools, and cherry pickers are all appropriate tools for trimming palms, but use something other than spiked climbing equipment, as this could damage the palm’s trunk. This will weaken it and leave it vulnerable to insects and diseases. It’s also a good idea to lay a tarp on the ground to make cleanup easier and protect any flowers or other plants near the palm tree from debris.

Start at the bottom of the foliage and remove only dead, dying, or broken fronds. If necessary, you can trim more fronds later, but be careful not to prune too much. You want the tree to produce only a few green fronds, as these will absorb energy that would otherwise be used for growth.

Pulling off the petioles they’re attached to when removing fronds is important. These small blades grow from the base of each frond, and it’s easy to mistake them for fronds. Once you’ve removed the fronds, it’s a good idea to discard the flowers, fruits, and prickly petioles. Be sure to use a trash can that’s dedicated to organic waste.

Another benefit of palm tree skinning is that it can reduce the number of insects and rodents attracted to the tree. This is because the fronds and jagged palm trunk provide a place for pests to hide. By getting rid of these, you’ll enjoy your yard without worrying about pests.

Palm trees have become iconic to Los Angeles landscapes but must be cared for to remain healthy and attractive. Dead fronds provide the perfect habitat for pests and rodents, which can damage palms and cause them to die. Skinning your palm trees helps reduce the number of unwanted guests on your property.

During the cold months, it is particularly important to prevent root damage with the help of a layer of mulch. A layer of organic mulch provides an insulating barrier and regulates soil temperature, protecting roots from the cold and fluctuation in moisture levels. A mulch layer also helps keep weeds away from the tree’s base, preventing excessive water absorption, which may result in root rot.

A layer of mulch also protects palms from soil-borne pathogens such as false smut, which attacks the roots of various palm species. This condition can be prevented by improving drainage, avoiding over-watering, and applying fungicides to the soil. It can also be treated by removing infected fronds and fruit.

Another problem that can affect palms is fusarium wilt, which is caused by phytoplasma and is transmitted by leafhoppers. Symptoms of this disease include yellow and wilted fronds. It can be prevented by avoiding pruning practices that create wounds and avoiding removing or mulching the old leaf bases, allowing the pathogen to enter the crowns and trunks of the palm.

The invasive palmetto weevil is also a serious concern for LA homeowners and can kill palms quickly. The weevil is strong and can fly long distances to find new hosts. Once the weevil gets into the root system of a palm, there is no cure.

Many common gardening tools, including shovels, spades, rakes, and hoes, can transmit the weevil. To avoid spreading the weevil, it is recommended that all pruning and palm tree removal tools be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before use. This can be done by soaking them for 10 minutes in a solution of 1:3 pine oil to water, 1:1 household bleach and water, or a butane torch.

Palm trees have a distinctive look that can add great curb appeal to a property. Unfortunately, like any tree, they can lose their attractiveness without routine care. Unlike deciduous trees, which return to their normal appearance in spring, or evergreens such as pine and cypress, palm trees constantly grow and change daily. Without regular trimming and skinning, the old fronds become unsightly, fire hazards, and pose a risk of accidents to pedestrians and vehicles.

Aside from making the tree unattractive, the dead fronds can absorb nutrients that living fronds could otherwise use. This can inhibit growth and make the remaining fronds weaker. Keeping the trees clean helps reduce the number of pests and prevents disease onset.

As a general rule, all palms should be skinned once each year. This is especially important if they are near homes and businesses, where the tree fronds may fall on the buildings or cars in strong winds.

Using a sharp knife when cutting the fronds and petioles is important, as they tend to have needle-like protrusions that can prick those handling them. After pruning, the cut fronds and petioles should be placed in organic waste trash bins. Please do not dispose of them in the regular garbage, as they can attract pests that damage the tree or cause harm.

Skinning a palm tree is not easy and should only be done by a professional with the right equipment. A ladder is needed to reach the higher sections of the tree where the fronds hide, and falling from these heights can be dangerous. This is one of the main reasons many homeowners hire a professional to perform this task.

Palm trees are one of the most popular types of plants that can be found on residential properties across the country. Like many other types of trees that grow on private property, palms need regular maintenance to ensure their health. One of the most important tasks that a home or business owner can perform to ensure the proper health of their palm is to have it skinned each year.

The main reason for homeowners to have their palms skinned is because it can help protect the tree from harmful pests. Rodents and numerous species of bugs will often use the dead fronds as a spot to rest, which can lead to an infestation that is difficult to get rid of once it begins. Skinning your palms regularly can drastically reduce unwanted pests on or around your home or office.

Aside from protecting against pests, another benefit of skinning your palms is that it can increase their overall health. By removing the dead fronds, you can prevent them from stealing nutrients from the living parts of the tree. This can dramatically affect the overall health of your palm and make it much more resistant to disease or other issues that can affect its lifespan.

When it comes to palm tree skinning, the most important thing to remember is that you should always leave this job to a professional with experience with performing this type of service. This is because it involves climbing the palm tree and using sharp tools. If you attempt to perform this task on your own, it is very easy to injure yourself or cause damage to the tree. Moreover, you may also develop open wounds on the trunk that can be infected. This can significantly reduce the overall health of the tree and will hinder its ability to transfer nutrients from the roots to the fronds.

The good news is that the team at your local tree service company can easily and safely conduct all of the required services to maintain the optimal health of your palms. In addition to the standard trimming and removal of dead fronds, they can also perform skinning services, which remove the rough webbing that years of trimming have left on your palms.

The Basics of Tree Care

Ava Schmidt Tree Service , , , , ,

Keeping trees healthy is essential to their survival. This means recognizing wind patterns and planting them where they will be sheltered.

Tree Services

Professional tree services also know how to handle equipment like wood chippers and chainsaws, have liability insurance, and follow standard safety practices. This reassures clients that you’re qualified to do the work they need to be done.

Pruning is the process of removing dead, diseased or damaged branches and shrubs as well as thinning out plants to improve their overall health and structure. It is a key part of tree care that can also help promote better air circulation, reduce moisture levels, discourage pest infestations and enhance beauty in the landscape.

Proper pruning can help prevent damage to your home or property by reducing the risk of falling limbs during stormy weather. It can also remove limbs that are growing too close to power lines or structures, as well as encourage fruit production in trees and shrubs.

Formative pruning is performed on young trees and shrubs to train their growth and shape them. It is important to perform this type of pruning as it can minimize the amount of time and labor needed to maintain a plant in the future.

Removing lateral branches that are competing with the leader helps strengthen it and make it less vulnerable to breakage. It can also be used to correct the growth habit of a tree that has reverted back to a multiple-leader spreading form from its original single-leader growth habit.

Thin out cuts are a more drastic type of pruning that removes a significant portion of a branch from its point of origin. This is commonly used on shrubs like roses to encourage branching and vigor, as well as on shade trees to increase light penetration to the lower canopy.

Summer blooming shrubs should be pruned in late winter or spring before they start producing new growth. This includes azalea, rhododendron, forsythia and lilacs. Hydrangeas, including H. macrophylla and H. serrata, can be pruned right after they bloom as they set their flower buds the year prior to pruning.

Mulching

When mulching is done properly, it keeps soil moist, cool and adds organic matter. It also suppresses weed growth and promotes a healthy environment for the roots of young trees. It is an important practice for all species of trees but is especially critical for urban and suburban landscapes.

The best types of mulch are those that come from organic material and decompose over time. These include wood chips, pine needles, shredded bark, cocoa hulls and leaves, compost and even sphagnum peat moss. Organic mulches improve the soil structure and fertility by adding organic matter while the process of decay releases nutrients to the growing plant.

However, be careful not to put mulch up too close to the trunk of a tree. This can lead to trunk girdling and damp conditions that are ideal for fungal diseases such as fungi and bacteria. Inner bark tissue, which carries photosynthates from leaves to the rest of the tree is killed by wet conditions. This prevents phloem from transporting sugars to roots and starving the tree of essential carbohydrates.

Non-biodegradable materials such as lava rock, gravel and crushed shells do not boost soil structure or fertility and are not recommended for use under trees or shrubs. These types of mulches may be a good choice for pathways and driveways but are not effective as a soil enhancement under trees and can contribute to compaction problems. Plastic sheet “mulches” should never be used because they suffocate the root zone by blocking oxygen from entering.

Insect Control

Insects can damage trees and shrubs by feeding or spreading diseases. Proper plant care reduces the chance of insect infestations, but fungus and pests can still invade healthy plants. In addition to mulching, pruning and watering, insect control is another important part of tree health care.

Correctly identifying insects is essential to successful pest control. Insect damage to leaves and branches can be easy to miss, but there are many symptoms that indicate an infestation. Piercing sucking insects leave ragged holes in leaves, sap-sucking insects cause discolored or distorted leaves, and chewing insects can defoliate trees. Wood-boring insects can also weaken and kill trees by boring into the inside of the trunk or branches.

Spraying is the most common method of applying insecticides, fungicides and nutrients to trees and shrubs. However, spraying is wasteful because much of the chemical drifts into nearby plants or runs off the surface. In addition, a spray may not reach the interior of the tree where it is needed.

A better option for controlling insects is a systemic insecticide like 12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed. Unlike sprays, these products are delivered to the roots and internal parts of the tree, so they are more effective. Additionally, they work over a wider treatment window than sprays because the application takes place when insects are most active and laying eggs. This bottom-up approach is also safer than spraying because it doesn’t release chemicals into the air. This type of insecticide is particularly helpful when protecting against high-value ash trees, which will require systemic protection in 2021 as they have no immunity to the deadly Emerald Ash Borer.

Disease Control

Trees and shrubs require care to keep them healthy and disease-free. A disease problem can develop due to biotic pathogens (fungi, bacteria and viruses) or abiotic factors that damage trees and shrubs.

Many diseases are opportunistic and strike when trees or plants become stressed by environmental conditions or insect pests. Fungi like rusts and mildews often appear on fruit trees and ornamentals after heavy rain or drought, while insect pests leave openings for pathogens to invade.

Diseases can cause a wide variety of symptoms, from mild to severe and disfiguring to fatal. Funguses and viral infections can lead to wilting leaves, shriveled bark or needles, and discolored or misshapen branches. Bacterial diseases like fire blight, bacterial leaf scorch, and canker disease infect various species of trees and lead to decline and death.

Needle cast diseases are a serious problem for many evergreens, including Colorado blue spruce (Picea pungens), white fir (Abies concolor), Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), hemlock (Tsuga), and cedar (Cedrus). Infected trees suffer from stunted growth, needle drop, and loss of vigor.

A fungal infection of pines called brown spot needle blight causes yellow or brown-tinted needles and brown bands that eventually turn black and die, leading to a bare tree. Fungicide sprays are available to control this disease. Bacterial leaf blight, which affects members of the rose family (Rosaceae), including apples, pears and crabapples, can also infect hawthorns, serviceberries, and quinces. Vaccines are available to protect against this disease.

Tree Removal

Tree removal is an important part of the tree care process. There are times that it becomes necessary to remove a tree because it is in danger of falling over or has become too large for its space. There are also reasons to remove a tree because it is causing damage to property (such as a home, driveway, or sidewalk) or is producing too much shade.

Removing a tree is not an easy job, and it is best left to professionals who have the equipment, skills, and knowledge to do it properly. There are many news stories of untrained people attempting to cut down trees and causing serious damage to themselves, their homes, or property. Using a professional tree service is the safest way to have a tree removed because it uses trained arborists, specialized equipment such as cranes and aerial lifts, and follows safety standards.

A professional tree company will assess the situation before starting to determine if there are any issues with power lines, nearby structures, or other trees that can be damaged by the removal of the tree. The company will then plan out the best way to remove the tree and minimize the impact on the surrounding property.

Fall and struck-by hazards are the leading causes of death and serious injury for workers in the field of arboriculture, including tree care services. These hazards can be caused by falls from trees or from aerial lifts/boom equipment, falling branches or limbs, and falling hand tools. A reputable tree service company will employ a thorough worksite assessment and safe operating procedures to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of their workers. They will also follow ANSI A300 tree pruning standards and provide consumer resources.

Getting Ready For Tree Trimming

Alice Nelson Tree Service , , , , ,

Palm Tree Trimming Las Vegas removes overgrown portions of a tree or plant. This can help boost their appearance and health. When left unattended, branches can grow unevenly and become scraggly or misshapen. In addition, excessive overgrowth can block sunlight or impede nutrients and moisture from reaching other parts of the tree.

A tree trimming company needs various tools to perform their job properly. They will need a variety of different trimming tools to cut limbs and branches, as well as safety equipment to ensure that they can reach their work areas safely. There are also a number of different rigging tools, which allow the team to safely access and cut higher parts of the tree or equipment.

tree trimming

A trimmer’s first need is a pair of safety goggles, which will keep them protected from any debris that may fall during the trimming process. Even the tiniest branch tangle or branch spike can cause injury if it hits them in the eye, so this is an essential piece of equipment to have on hand. It is best to use a pair of goggles that are designed to fit securely and comfortably on the face, and that are also adjustable.

Having a pair of quality pruning shears is also important for trimming and pruning trees. These are a basic, versatile tool that can be used for both simple, small cuts, as well as for trimming larger limbs and branches. A good pair of shears will be sharp and sturdy, with a blade that is designed for a clean cut. They will also come in a variety of lengths, so that the user can find one that fits their preferred style and comfort level.

For branches and limbs that are too high to reach with pruning shears, a pole pruner will be needed. This is a lightweight and reliable tool that can be used to cut branches as high as 15 feet, reducing the need for ladders or hoisting on some jobs. It will typically have a bypass cutting blade, as well as an anvil blade, which is useful for cutting larger limbs and branches. There are also some models of pole pruners that are designed to fold, allowing them to be transported and stored more easily.

Many commercial trimming and pruning jobs require working near power lines, so the team will need a set of specialized safety equipment to protect themselves from any potential hazards that might occur. This includes a harness that can be connected to a rope to help with climbing, as well as a variety of personal protective equipment, including gloves, ear protection and a hard hat. They will also need a first aid kit, which should be large enough to handle serious wounds if they occur during the course of a project.

When trimming a tree, workers may be exposed to potential safety hazards. These can include falling limbs and branches, electrocution from working near overhead electrical power lines, and accidents caused by using noisy or dangerous equipment like chainsaws. Identifying these hazards and taking precautions to minimize them can help ensure the safety of workers while trimming trees.

Before starting work, workers should survey the area for any possible hazards. If they see any potential dangers, such as a tree that is leaning or rotting, they should call in a professional to do the job safely. It is also important to use proper personal protective equipment, including hard hats, gloves, and non-slip footwear. This can reduce the risk of injuries from falling debris and cuts from sharp tools. Workers should inspect their PPE before each use to make sure it is in good condition with no loose or damaged parts.

In addition, workers should avoid doing any unnecessary pruning or trimming. This can lead to overgrowth that will require more frequent trimming in the future. They should also never attempt to cut down a live tree without the appropriate training and certifications. A pro should be called if the tree is close to or touching power lines, as this can pose a significant risk of electrocution.

While working, workers should maintain a safe distance from any power lines. They should stay at least 10 feet away and assume that all power lines are energized. They should also contact the utility company if they are unsure whether or not a line is active. If a worker, their tool, or their clothing contacts an overhead power line, they could receive severe electrical shock and potentially be killed.

Workers should also be careful when climbing to access the branches that need to be trimmed. They should use a ladder with solid footing and secure it to the ground or the tree. They should also tie their safety harnesses and lanyards to strong limbs or the trunk of the tree. In addition, they should remove anything on the ground that could obstruct their path or cause them to fall. This can include tripping hazards, branches that could fall, or rocks and other debris.

Getting ready to trim or prune a tree requires a little preparation. If the trimming site contains any objects, such as fountains or planters, they should be stowed away to avoid breakage from falling branches or debris. Marking an area on the ground at least two times the height of the tree is also important, as this helps to indicate where to work and where ground crews should stand while the tree is being trimmed. It is a good idea to establish both verbal and visual communication systems between the ground crew and the climbers to ensure that everyone stays safe.

The purpose of trimming a tree is to remove dead branches or those that are in danger of breaking and falling, especially during a storm. It is also a way to promote overall tree health by eliminating diseased or insect-infested portions of the plant, and it encourages new growth by allowing sunlight to reach the lower sections of the crown.

Improper pruning can result in unsightly overgrowth that can cause damage to the property. For example, overgrown trees can block sunlight from grass and other plants below, reducing their growth, or they can prevent the roots from absorbing moisture and nutrients from the soil. Another potential problem is when the branches of a tree start to cross or interfere with each other. These types of overlapping branches can also lead to decay and rot.

The final reason for trimming is the maintenance of a desired form or appearance. For example, a tree may be shaped by making several cuts called training cuts, which help the plant grow in an aesthetically pleasing shape. Other reasons for maintaining the form or appearance of a tree include enhancing the beauty of a landscape, preventing limbs from interfering with power lines, and reducing the risk of injury to people or vehicles.

Regular tree trimming is an essential part of any landscape. Without it, a tree can become a safety hazard and cause damage to property. It can also cause unattractive growth, such as a scraggly or uneven shape. The best time to trim a tree is during the winter when the risk of injury is lowest.

When properly done, tree trimming helps trees grow in a healthy manner. This routine landscape maintenance removes dead or diseased limbs, opens up the canopy of the tree to let sunlight and air filter through, prevents rubbing branches, reduces the risk of breakage from wind or snow and keeps the shape of the plant consistent.

It also helps keep limbs from reaching power lines or coming too close to the house, which can cause damage to both and create a safety hazard. Additionally, it prevents the buildup of water around the base of the tree which can lead to rot and other serious problems.

There are multiple reasons to trim a tree, and the proper frequency depends on the type of tree and its growth rate. For instance, deciduous trees such as maple and oak may need to be trimmed annually, while evergreens like holly and hemlock can go a few years before they require attention.

Pruning for plant health focuses on removing any dead or dying limbs, those that rub together or are in close proximity to other branches, and branch stubs that fail to grow new foliage. It also removes suckers that form along the bark and should only be done when it is necessary to address a specific issue such as a diseased or insect-infested branch.

Another pruning task is thinning the crown, which involves eliminating individual living branches to reduce the overall density of the tree. This can help increase sunlight penetration and air circulation, as well as decrease tension from gravity, wind, ice or snow on selected limbs.

A common mistake is confusing shearing with pruning, which involves removing branches to maintain a particular design and should only be done at the end of the season, after leaves have fallen off the tree or shrub. Shearing can be used to maintain the size of a hedge or to remove extraneous growth, but it should not be performed on established plants because it can impact their health and appearance. If you are not sure whether or how often to shear your plants, consult an arborist for advice.