Myths busted about tree trimming and tree pruning. Read what you need to know!

Straining your eyes? You can listen to this automated AI version of the article here:

Tree Trimming Auckland Experts. There is some variance in opinion as to best way to manage tree pruning and tree trimming. Trees are typically trimmed for one of three reasons: aesthetics, safety, or health.

Tree owners often ask us about how to manage their tree maintenance. So we decided to write our latest Blog post about Tree Trimming in Auckland. We are Auckland tree care service providers and expert arborists in tree maintenance. We thought it would be useful to share some of our experience and insights with you.

This month we address the myths around tree trimming and tree pruning.

We are going to debunk some of the common misconceptions about tree trimming and tree pruning. However, before we do that let us start with why pruning is considered essential for trees.

• Tree pruning removes diseased and damaged tree branches. Broken branches can be a health and safety risk. Always prune trees promptly, even if the tree is otherwise healthy.
• Pruning prevents potential conflicts with building structures, walkways, car traffic and trees blocking your views.
• Large tree pruning can be used to reduce the crown size of the tree to reduce negative effects of high winds.
• Pruning trees improves tree structure through removal of hazardous branches and suppression of competing tree branches.

So, what are the common myths about tree pruning and tree trimming that we commonly come across?

Myth #1: Trees Can Perfectly Do Well without Pruning.

This is probably the most frequently heard myth concerning tree pruning. Like it or not trees need pruning when they are in the urban environment. Tree do not mind shedding limbs. However when building houses and streets, we must manage any tree to ensure it is safe. If you fail to prune your trees in a timely manner, it will not only negatively affect their appearance, but their health too.

Myth #2: Trees Should Not Be Pruned during Summer.

This is another misconception that is not altogether true. Pruning trees in summer is generally better for the trees as the tree can react to the wounding. Some pruning including pruning for fruit production, or light pollard pruning should be done during the winter months as it will encourage more young wood to be developed.

Young wood is important for fruit production and for cultivated pollard trees. Be sure to consult a professional tree care service before any significant trimming, especially in the summer.

Myth #3: Fruit / Citrus Trees and Shade Trees Can Be Pruned Similarly.

Pruning fruit trees and shade trees in the same manner would be a huge mistake. Shade trees should not be pruned as heavily as fruit trees. Tree pruning practices should be based on species and property owners’ goals.

Myth #4: Tree pruning Auckland at the wrong time can cause it to die.

It is a fact that tree pruning at the wrong time can cause injury to the tree. Many instances where trees die because of being pruned at the wrong time are rare. It is best not to prune a tree when the sap is flowing. However, that does not mean that if you do so you have irreparably harmed the tree and it is bound to die.

Myth #5: Over-pruning is a common problem and will kill your trees.

While you can indeed over-prune a tree, the average Gardner is not going to do this unless they are using a power tool. Trees should be pruned lightly and with care. If you are in doubt, or even if you feel that your tree pruning skills could use a little brushing up, contact a professional Auckland arborist.

Ask for the support you need to look after your trees. Get regular tree care maintenance and ensure that your tree care is appropriate and helpful for your trees. Also check out our Blog post about tree pruning Auckland wide to improve your beautiful Auckland views.

For general tree pruning Auckland wide or tree trimming advice we recommend you contact our arborists.

Did you know that we also have available a range of “How To Provide Tree Maintenance Series” instructional guides. Tree care guides are aimed for tree owners who are keen to get their hands dirty.

1. How to plant a tree guide with plenty of helpful advice…
2. How to prune a tree and manage the condition of your trees…
3. How to mulch a tree and take care of your trees…
4. How to care for your trees in the summer heat…
5. How to trim a hedge the right way for the best results…
6. How to provide tree work for trees blocking your view…
7. How to stop tree leaves falling on your property…
8. How to choose an Arborist the right way…
9. How to carry out smart tree attachments the right way…
10. How to understand Arboricultural terminology…
11. How to grow and prune an Avocado tree…
12. How to prune fruit trees. Expert advice by our expert arborists…

Join us on Facebook and we’d love you to recommend our tree services on Google and Facebook.

Rossy and the Team.