Your tree canopy consists of the uppermost branches and leaves that provide shade and a habitat for wildlife. When trees aren’t trimmed properly in the early stages, they can develop health and structural problems that have an impact on their appearance, durability, and life expectancy. Specific techniques are required to prevent overgrowth and keep them healthy.

What Are the Best Tree Canopy Trimming Techniques?

Branch selection involves removing diseased, damaged, or dead branches to maintain tree health. Loose, brittle, or dead bark and any fungus are removed. The branches are trimmed back to the healthy wood. Crown reduction maintains the tree’s natural shape by removing branches at the top or sides of the tree to minimize how far the branches spread and maintain the shape. Crown raising is a procedure that trims back lower branches for vehicles and people to pass safely. Crown thinning is a technique that involves trimming back the highest branches to allow more air circulation and sunlight.

Springtime growth can cause problems. The limbs may block foot or vehicle traffic, overgrowth could be blocking your view, or branches could be hitting your home.

Your canopy overhangs and provides shade. However, there are issues to be aware of. A dense overhang creates ideal conditions for diseases and insects because sufficient air and sunlight can’t penetrate. A dense, overgrown crown can be the result of a variety of issues.

• Too many branches in one area may inhibit growth
• A suckering branch growing root may grow vertically
• Branches may be dead in the crown of the tree
• Vines, like ivy, could grow high onto the canopy

What’s the Best Time to Trim Your Trees?

If you have nesting birds in your trees, it’s best to wait until they fly off. Many bird species are declining. If you have hardwoods, like maples that produce sap, it’s best to wait until the sap stops flowing to allow the trees to heal. Oaks should be pruned when they’re dormant. Fruit trees should be trimmed when they’re dormant as well to ensure a bountiful fruit crop. Flowering varieties should be cut in the spring after they bloom.

Benefits of Trimming and Preventing Overgrowth

Trees enhance your property’s appearance. However, there are benefits to trimming overgrowth. When trees are pruned and trimmed, it improves the core support structure, strength, and stability. Flowering, hardwood, or saplings should be trimmed to ensure good health, proper growth, and nutrients to reach leaves and branches. Healthy trees have fewer problems with insects and disease. Regular trimming allows for a natural setting similar to a lush, wooded area or a forest.

Need your trees trimmed properly? Reach out to South Coast Outdoor Service in Mobile, AL for trimming tree services.