Trees are magnificent, they can live for very long periods, are not generally affected by the weather, and they blossom every year. Of course, having a tree in your garden is more than just a beautiful addition to the yard.
A tree gives your children something to play in and creates memories. It becomes a sentimental part of your property and not something you’ll ever want to consider felling.
That’s why it’s so important to learn how to properly prune your tree branches. This will help your tree to stay healthy and outlive you. It should be noted that a reputable tree arborist Sydney can help you with pruning or even bringing the tree down, if necessary.
Timing
In general, it’s best to look at pruning your trees in the early spring. However, you should start planning the pruning in autumn. As the leaves fall from the trees it’s look will be fresh in your mind and you’ll know which branches are too heavily laden.
This is the time to consider which branches should be removed. You’ll want to focus on dead or dying limbs and any branch that damages the overall shape of the tree. In addition, it’s worth looking at the height and whether you want it to get any higher.
When you decide which branches need to be removed mark them with a black marker.
Sort Your Tool
As spring approaches and you get ready to prune you need to make sure your pruning shears, saw, and any other tools you have are clean and sharp.
Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean the saw while a standard sharpening stone will make sure the blades on your pruning shears are up to the job.
It’s important to clean your tools between trees, especially if they are different species. If you don’t you’ll increase the chances of spreading an infection from one tree to the other.
Cutting
To prune the tree you want to wait until it starts to form buds in the early spring. At this point cut the branches you’ve marked. Make sure each cut is above the bud, approximately 1/4 inch above will do.
If you cut at a 45° angle you’ll dictate the direction any new growth will appear in. This also prevents water damage and stops infections from getting into the tree.
If you need to cut a thicker branch use a saw and cut it in sections. This is to prevent the weight of the cut branch tearing the bark of the tree and causing it stress. Where larger branches are removed a callus will form, this should be where the branch joined the tree.
Take care to ensure there is no tension on that joint when you cut, it’s important for the safety and ongoing health of your tree.
The aim of your pruning is to remove dead branches, maintain the shape of the tree, and ensure enough air can move freely through all the branches. If you remember this as you start pruning it will be fine. If in doubt, call the professionals who have the best equipment to prune your tree properly.
