Many people mix up tree trimming and pruning because they don’t know the difference. But they’re both essential for keeping your garden and yard looking great all year round.
At Kenny Kim Landscaping, we’re experts in tree care. We’ll explain what makes tree pruning different from trimming and why both are so important for trees. Let’s get into it!
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What is Tree Trimming?
Tree trimming is cutting specific tree parts for reasons other than health. Usually, this is done to improve the tree’s appearance and how it blends with its environment. Trimming is often done to maintain the size and shape of a tree or shrub or to allow more sunlight to reach the surrounding lawn.
Professionals usually target the removal of green shoots to promote healthier growth overall. Additionally, trimming enhances the tree’s appearance.
Benefits of Trimming Trees
Trimming trees properly is good for their health. It gets rid of dead, sick, or tangled branches. Trimming also helps air and light penetrate better, making new growth happen. It keeps trees strong so they don’t get damaged in storms. But if you cut off too much, it can hurt the tree. Stephen Webb from Garden’s Whisper says taking off more than 20% of the leaves at once could harm your plant. Usually, though, the plant gets better after a while.
When is the best time to Trim Trees?
Caring for trees depends on the latest research, which is always ongoing. It’s important to stay updated on the best ways to do it. Traditionally, people thought fall and winter were the best times to trim trees. But recent research shows that’s only sometimes true.
Trimming a tree during its peak growing season, usually in spring or early summer, allows it to heal better. That’s because it has more energy to recover from the cuts made during pruning. When you trim during dormant periods, like fall or winter, trees can’t heal as well. This leaves them vulnerable to decay, disease, and insects attacking the exposed wood before it can heal in the next growing season.
However, there are exceptions. Sometimes, it’s still best to trim certain trees during dormant periods. This might be necessary if there are specific diseases or insects to consider or if you want the tree to produce fruit or flowers.
What is Tree Pruning?
Tree pruning involves goals similar to trimming but also focuses on the tree’s health. It includes
- carefully cutting back live branches to improve the structure,
- removing deadwood for safety and
- getting rid of diseased branches.
These actions help trees develop a sturdy framework for growth and maintain their appearance. How often pruning is needed depends on goals, client preferences, and the tree’s type and location. Generally, most trees benefit from pruning every one to three years.
Tree pruning is more complicated than trimming and should be performed solely by a qualified arborist.
When is the best time to Prune Trees?
The best time for pruning trees depends on the type of tree. Usually, deciduous trees are pruned in late winter or early spring when they’re dormant. This promotes faster healing and lowers the chance of disease. Flowering trees, on the other hand, are best pruned after they bloom to avoid affecting flower production.
For expert advice on the best time to prune your trees, always consult a certified arborist at Kenny Kim Landscaping.
What Kind of Tools Are Needed to Prune or Trim?
The perfect tool experts use for trimming trees is called a “trimmer” or “clipper.” It can be electric or gas-powered. People typically use shears to trim shrubs.
When it comes to pruning shrubs, the tool of choice is a “shear.” There are two types: hand shears, which are great for removing leaves and buds and lopping shears, which are handy for cutting thick branches.
Difference between tree trimming and pruning
The big difference between tree pruning and tree trimming is their purpose. Tree pruning removes branches, both live and dead or unhealthy, to keep the tree healthy. On the other hand, tree trimming gets rid of branches that get in the way.
If you’re unsure whether your tree needs trimming or pruning, it’s safest to ask the certified arborists at Kenny Kim Landscaping. We’re your go-to for the best tree service in Toronto, serving North York. Our experts will check your tree’s health and recommend what’s best. Reach out today for swift assistance!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between tree looping and trimming?
Tree looping involves extreme pruning and removing large parts or whole branches. Trimming, on the other hand, targets selected smaller sections of growth.
Which branches should I cut when pruning?
Focus on removing these specific branches: dead, diseased, or damaged branches; crossing branches that rub together; suckers and water sprouts (vertical shoots that drain energy).
Does trimming mean cutting?
No, trimming is about shaping the tree for appearance or size control. Cutting, or pruning, removes dead, diseased, or problematic branches to enhance the tree’s overall health.
How can I determine if I need tree trimming or tree pruning?
If you want your tree to look better, go for tree trimming. If you’re concerned about your tree’s health, choose tree pruning.