Tree Pruning Harrisonburg

What Is Pruning? 

Pruning refers to the process of selectively removing parts from a plant, tree or shrub. In this case, we are discussing the removal of branches from trees in order to shape them and keep them healthy. It is important that you know how and when to do so as well what tool should be used for said task!

When Should Pruning Be Done

Generally speaking, pruning should be done in the winter after leaves have fallen off and before new shoots start growing in late February or early March. The best time to prune your trees, according to the ISA, is actually most anytime for light, routine pruning. This can take place at any time during the year with little effect on trees. It is important not to trim live tissue that has just finished growing in the spring as this will slow down growth and wound closure.

To be sure that you are not "over-pruning" your trees, it is a good idea to have them examined by an expert every few years. This will let the professional know how much maintenance should be done on each tree in order for it to thrive and grow at its best! These professionals can also tell which branches need to be removed from the tree altogether as they could pose danger or become diseased over time.

Why prune you trees

The reasons for pruning your trees include:

Tree health and safety by removing dead, diseased or broken branches.

To clear the area around your tree to improve visibility and provide more space for mowing, planting and other activities. Reduction in overcrowding of branches so that sunlight can reach all parts of the tree canopy.

Encouraging a fuller shape by removing competing foliage or shoots from lower on the trunk as it grows out over time.

To improve the health of your trees by removing poorly positioned branches or selecting new sites for a branch to grow from, which prevents weak spots in the tree's structure.

For safety reasons such as obstructions to fire hoses during fires or for emergency vehicles if there is an accident nearby.

There are also aesthetic considerations regarding what you like about your trees: do they cast too much shade? Do their drooping limbs make them look unkempt? Are they growing into power lines?

For individuals with various types of allergies (e.g., pollen), pruning can reduce seasonal allergy symptoms among some people.

When to prune your trees

The best way to tell if it’s time to start looking into having your tree professionally trimmed is when one or more major signs are present.

1. You can see that the tree’s canopy is too dense and shaded.
2. A branch or a bunch of branches have broken off for no apparent reason, which usually indicates internal rot in the wood.
3. The shape of your tree has grown out of hand; it may be time to trim up some lower branches to make room for new growth.

The proper cut can improve a young tree's structure and appearance for years to come. Young trees must be pruned in order to avoid possible damage that could never heal, but this also has the potential of changing their growth as they mature. When setting an objective while pruning, it is important not only consider why you are making cuts now- whether it be improving strength or shape -but how those decisions may affect its future development

How to prune your trees

There are many ways and techniques for trimming up a tree. The ISA advises not cutting back too far on any one cut, which can weaken the branch.

Don't cut back more than one third of the branch in any one cut.

To avoid overpruning, make your first cuts on a long or large limb near where it joins another limb to get most of the weight out from under that smaller tree and then work down towards the trunk.

Remove all branches with suckers growing inside them that are coming off the main trunk as these can replace leaves for food production up into adulthood.

Remove any crossing branches that rub together and damage the bark.

If removing a branch, remember to cut on its outside edge or just inside of it so as not to leave an open wound in the tree where bacteria may enter.

There are many different types of tree pruning equipment, and which one is right for you depends on what type of trees you have. A good rule of thumb is to use a more aggressive style tool if your trees are tall or very large in diameter- these will cut through branches faster than a smaller and cleaner tool would be able to do so. Always wear protective gear when using this machinery in case an accident should occur such as slippage from the branch being trimmed by the machine's blade.

Hand Saws - these require significant arm strength due to their weight; they also tend not to cut through wood like some other power saws might. These may be better for those with a smaller property as well because they require decent arm strength and you may tire quickly.

Loppers - this type of tool is good for cutting branches that are near the ground or not too high off it, which may make it easier on someone who does not want to climb up and down from their ladder all day long! The blades used in loppers leave behind jagged edges which could potentially puncture other tree branches if positioned incorrectly.

Shears- probably the lightest power tool around due both its size and weight; many see shears as being the best choice for those willing to do a lot of the work themselves.

Pole Pruners- these come with an extendable pole (usually steel) that can be extended as far out as you need it and then hooked onto whatever branch needs trimmed at any given time. Pole pruner blades cut more cleanly so there aren't many sharp edges left behind afterward either.

Pruning Saw- a chainsaw attachment that can be added to your gas powered or electric saw. This is for cutting through thicker branches and logs, but it's just as dangerous so you should always take all the necessary safety precautions first!

Unlike power tools like chainsaws, hand tools don't make any noise at all so they can be used in residential areas without bothering the neighbors.

Who Should Prune Your Trees

A professional tree service should be able to help you with the best pruning techniques for your trees. They're qualified and have years of experience so they'll know what is right for each type, size, level of health as well as location in which it's planted.

Top Tree Service Harrisonburg is the company for all your tree pruning needs. We are committed to providing professional, quality work at an affordable price. Our team of experts will make sure that your trees are trimmed and healthy so they can provide shade and beauty for years to come.

Hiring our company ensures that you’ll have a beautiful yard without any worries about falling branches or other hazards. You won’t have to worry about anything when we take care of it all!

You can trust us to take care of any job big or small! Whether it's trimming trees or removing them entirely, we'll be there for you every step of the way. We offer free estimates on all services so call today! Our team of experts will provide you with excellent customer service, competitive prices, and prompt response time.



You don't have to worry about hiring an inexperienced company when you work with us because our staff has the skills necessary for every type of job. We also offer competitive rates so you won't be breaking the bank on this project either! Give us a call today and see what we can do for you!

Call Harrisonburg's Best Pruning Team!