Wichita Falls Tree Service

Tree Pruning Services

Each cut during pruning can affect a tree’s growth, so it’s important to prune with a purpose. Common reasons include removing dead branches, improving the tree’s shape, and reducing risks. However, excessive pruning can stress the tree by reducing its energy reserves and growth. Pruning is often necessary for clearance, safety, and ensuring the tree fits within the landscape. For more information, we recommend reading Pruning Mature Trees from the Texas A&M Forest Service.

At Wichita Falls Tree Service, our services begin with an initial consultation. During the meeting, our team will assess the condition of your trees. After the assessment, we will provide you with a summary of the recommended tree pruning services as well as the cost. If approved by you, then our team will begin pruning the trees, following our three cut process. After completing the pruning, we remove the debris, leaving your property clean. Last, we perform a walk-through with you to ensure your satisfaction. At Wichita Falls Tree Service, we treat everyone like family. Click here to learn more about us.

Our Pruning Process

1. Underside of Branch: Start by making the first cut on the underside of the branch, about 18 inches from the trunk. This initial cut should go about halfway through the branch, preventing the bark from tearing when the branch falls.
2. Topside of Branch: Move to the top side of the branch, about an inch further out from your first cut. Carefully cut downwards until the branch breaks away. This reduces the branch’s weight, making the final cut more manageable.
3. Outside of the Collar: Locate the branch collar, which is the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. Make the final cut just outside the collar at a 45-degree angle. This angle prevents water damage and promotes the quick formation of a protective callus over the cut.

Tree Pruning vs. Tree Trimming

It is important to understand the difference between tree pruning and tree trimming. Tree pruning is the removal of branches to improve the structure of the tree. This process involves removing dead, diseased, or overgrown branches. Tree trimming, on the other hand, is the trimming of overgrown branches to maintain a desired shape or size, primarily for appearance. While both services enhance the appearance of trees, pruning is more health-focused, whereas trimming is more about maintaining shape and size.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will pruning hurt my tree? No, when done correctly by our professional arborists, pruning promotes healthy growth and prevents disease, enhancing the tree’s overall health.
2. Can pruning be done year-round? While some trees can be pruned year-round, it is often best to prune during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring, to minimize stress on the tree. However, we do recommend other tree services anytime of the year: emergency tree services, tree bracing, and tree cabling.
3. How often should trees be pruned? The frequency of pruning depends on the tree species and growth rate, but generally, most trees benefit from pruning every 3-5 years to maintain health and structure.
4. How can I tell if my tree needs pruning? Signs that a tree needs pruning include dead or diseased branches, overgrown limbs, branches interfering with structures, or a general decline in tree health. Our arborists can provide a thorough assessment to determine your tree’s needs.
5. What is the difference between tree pruning and tree trimming? Tree pruning focuses on improving tree health and structure by removing specific branches, while tree trimming primarily maintains shape and size for aesthetic purposes.