You cherish your trees, whether they’re fleeting and bring you blazing colors in the fall or evergreens that keep their greenery throughout the year. Sometimes, you can tell when your tree needs pruning just by a glance, but other times, you might not be so sure. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to hire a professional arborist. Here are some signs that your tree may need pruning.
The Branches Cross
Branches that cross each other can eventually grow to rub against each other. This can scrape off the protective bark and make the branch more vulnerable to pests or diseases. Arborists recommend that crossing branches be pruned as soon as they’re detected. Don’t wait for spring or the usual time to prune the tree.
Too Much Dead Wood
Lots of dead wood on your tree must also be pruned away whenever it’s seen. It’s imperative to do this if the tree is old and large, for a heavy branch can break off without warning and cause damage. You should also have an arborist or tree surgeon check out the tree. Lots of deadwood can signify the tree is sick or even dying.
Too Many Branches
A tree whose branches are too densely packed together needs pruning. This is easiest to see in a deciduous tree when the limbs are bare in the fall though you may have to do more investigating with an evergreen. Branches that are too dense restrict the flow of air and sunlight. This can cause a hazardous situation, as limbs in the center of the snarl of branches are weak from lack of sun and air and may snap off in a high wind.
Broken Branches
Branches can be broken for several reasons, but if you see broken branches on your tree, you should have them pruned as soon as possible. If the fractured limb is too high or heavy to manage, it’s time to call an arborist.
Trees That Are Misshapen
Trees that are misshapen or growing the wrong way are unattractive, and their imbalance can make them more susceptible to damage during a high wind or a snowstorm. Branches blown off or collapsing under the weight of ice or snow can also cause harm to people and property.
Does Your Tree Need Pruning? Get in Touch With the Pros
Though you may be able to prune your trees when they need it, there may be some jobs that are best left to a specialist. With that in mind, if you need professional tree trimming and pruning, contact A+ Tree & Landscaping in Wilmington, NC.
