Got an Urge to Prune Tress and Shrubs This Autumn?
There's just something about this time of year that makes people want to get out in the yard and rake and mulch. It's just that the fall may not be the best time for weekend-warriors to prune shrubs and trees, and here's why.In the fall, some tree and plant species are attempting to go dormant. The wrong type of pruning can stimulate growth, and this can weaken trees and plants. Pruning on a warm fall day causes the tree's sap to surface. If it drops below freezing during that night, the frozen sap can damage the tree.
- For professional arborists, the best time to prune trees may be late fall and winter. These professionals know how to work with trees that are in a dormant stage. Here's why it's important to hire a certified arborist.
- While dormant, trees are less susceptible to disease and insect infestation, which can both affect an open pruning wound. Arborists are careful not to damage trees.
- Dormancy allows a tree to focus its healing energy. In the spring and summer, a tree spends much of its energy in growing leaves and branches. Arborists can use this knowledge to their advantage.
- Dormancy gives an arborist a better view of the tree, making it much easier to see where limbs and branches should be pruned.
- Arborists are professionals who are familiar with safety rules. For the inexperienced, injuries can easily occur from falling branches and limbs. Branches and limbs can be surprisingly heavy.
Little things, like torn bark, can leave a tree damaged. This especially holds true if it's a large tree. Fall and winter should be the time of year that gives your trees a needed fresh start for spring. Spring brings the light and water that will help your trees grow more uniformly. Proper pruning allows a tree to take its proper shape and reveal its beauty come spring.At Wauson Tree Service, we know how the urge can hit to get out in your yard and clean up all the summer neglect. We just don't want you to harm yourself or your trees in the process. Call the professionals at Wauson Tree Service for a free estimate. Call today at 214-450-8720 or you can email us at walt@wausontreeservice.com.