Tree Trimming & Pruning

Caring for the trees on your property is one way to enhance property value and natural beauty.

Tree Trimming versus Tree Pruning

To the average residential customer, there is not much of a difference between tree trimming and tree pruning and depending upon the time of year and variety of tree, both can be done simultaneously. There is however a difference and while must of our customers use the terms interchangeably, it is not a bad idea to highlight the difference.

Tree Trimming is when live plant material is cut back to encourage the plant to grow, give it shape and remove unnecessary growth. Proper trimming can increase the life of a tree, increase its yield in the case of fruit bearing trees, and keep the tree away from obstacles such as powerlines. Trimming is a proactive step and is the foundation of tree maintenance, along with proper watering.

Tree trimming should be done regularly as part of a ongoing maintenance. Most residents only deal with their trees once they are in serious condition. Talk to us about what a maintenance program would look like. In the long run maintaining trees properly will save you financially an in terms of worry.

Tree Pruning by contrast is when dead material is removed from a tree. This can be a single branch that has broken due to wind or some other force, or a more extreme pruning as is often the case with overgrown and neglected trees. Pruning has two major considerations, the health of the tree and safety.
For neglected trees, a proper pruning can lighten the canopy, giving room for healthy growth and removing the burden from the tree. Sometimes pruning is enough to bring a tree back to life but it can also be the beginning of a more serious intervention.

Dead material in a tree is a safety hazard. Dead branches can be very heavy and in high winds can come down and damage property or even injure people. These branches can also cause power outages if they strike a utility line, adding to the danger as well as inconveniencing the neighbors.

Common Questions from our Customers

When Should You Have Your Trees Pruned?

The US Department of Agriculture Tree Owner’s Manual gives good general guidelines on tree planting, pruning and care. They recommend the following:

Age of Tree	Pruning Frequency
1 to 3 Years	Prune lightly in year 2 or 3
3 to 10 Years	Prune every 3 years.
After 10 Years	Prune every 5 years. Fruit trees every 1 to 3 years and evergreens only as needed

The US Department of Agriculture Tree Owner’s Manual gives good general guidelines on tree planting, pruning and care. They recommend the following:

They also give several warnings:

Pruning can be dangerous work. Follow these safety precautions to be sure you are around to enjoy your tree.

⚠ Electricity flows through branches. Never prune trees or branches that are within 10 feet of utility lines; instead contact your local utility company.

⚠ Ladders and trees do not mix. If pruning cannot be done with both feet on the ground, hire an arborist.

⚠ Chainsaws cut limbs. If power equipment is required, hire an arborist.

However, it is important that a licensed tree company is hired during the proper time of year. By pruning your trees during the wrong season, you could hinder its growth and in extreme cases cause the tree to die, the tree may fall over and need to be removed.

What are some signs indicating I need to hire a tree expert?

If the tree has grown in a way that is now putting people or property at risk that is a definite indicator that it is time to have your trees trimmed to prevent further damage.

Has a recent storm or a gust of wind caused the branches of the tree to fall, crack, or even rest on power lines? Then it is a good indicator that you will need to hire a professional tree company to address your immediate concerns.That is not only a safety issue, it can cause neighbors and adjacent communities in the San Gabriel Valley to lose access to electricity.

If your tree has started to block your vision from passing pedestrians bicyclist or vehicles then it’s a good indicator that you may need to have your trees pruned or trimmed. Prevent harm by making sure your line of sight is clear, and free of any obstruction.

How Much Does Tree Trimming Cost?

There is no way to answer that question without knowing a few variables. No two trees are exactly the same, and no two cuts, or tree trimming projects are the same. You can get an idea on how much you will spend based on how large is the tree, where the tree is on the property, how much bush needs to be trimmed, and a few other factors that we like to go over in detail with our customers. Call 626-633-0116 now, schedule a hassle free consultation, and get a free quote today!

What is Tree Lacing?

Scraped Content: Tree lacing is a method of pruning trees so that the tree admits light and air through its canopy or crown. Tree lacing and overall pruning is done for safety, health and aesthetics, according to The Forest Service. It reduces pest problems and dangerous branches.

Rely on our Expertise

Tree pruning is not an easy task. It is one of the most unsafe jobs that a trained technician can perform. Take into consideration several factors: first the height level that the crews are required to work at. In some cases, trees to reach as high as 40 or 50 feet and above.

Being equipped with the proper safety equipment such as a harness helmet gloves boots along with the necessary cutting tools is the best line of safety for technicians. Plus, years of experience working with trees of all types we are the most reasonable choice when it comes to having any tree contractor give your property thorough inspection. Call today and schedule a free estimate.

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