Pruning Trees & Shrubs
As trees grow, they need direction. This may be in the form of pruning, thinning or removing deadwood. Barts Tree Service has specialized training and equipment, as well as an “eye” for what needs to be done. Pruning enhances the appearance and value of landscaping, but its importance is more than cosmetic.

Proper pruning is important for the following reasons:

• Removes weak, dead, storm damaged, diseased, or interfering branches
• Can be used to train growth patterns of young trees which will ensure proper tree structure
• Minimizes the risk of storm damage by reducing density which significantly reduces wind resistance during storms.
• Provides clearance for streets, sidewalks, driveways, structures and overhead lines 

 
When to Prune
The dormant season, late fall or winter, is the best time to prune although dead branches can be removed at any time. Pruning during the dormant season minimizes sap loss and subsequent stress to the tree. It also minimizes the risk of fungus infection or insect infestation, as both are likely to be in dormancy at the same time as the tree. In the case of deciduous trees, pruning when the leaves are off will give you a better idea of how the pruning will affect the shape of the tree.

Types of Pruning
Structural and Corrective Pruning (Formative Pruning) – One of our main objectives at Bart’s Tree Service is to promote proper pruning techniques. When a tree is young, it is essential to train the plant to grow properly and without structural defects. Unfortunately, many trees are left to grow wild for too long. Most of these trees have weak limbs and are often badly damaged from wind and storms. These weak trees are extremely vulnerable to pest and disease invasion. Trees should be inspected or pruned periodically to maintain proper form.

Crown Thinning – Crown thinning is necessary on certain species of trees. Excessive competition between limbs can lead to structural defects and dieback. Selectively removing competing growth will allow the remaining limbs to grow with proper taper and form. Sunlight will filter through the tree creating much needed interior growth, and the tree will live a longer healthier life.

Crown Raising/Lifting – Crown raising consists of the removal of lower branches to provide clearance to a specified height.

Crown Reduction/Shaping – Crown shaping is not usually necessary on larger trees, but with smaller
trees such as flowering ornamentals and fruit trees. A plant that has never been properly pruned is
most likely out of proportion and is at risk of losing its natural form forever.

Crown Restoration – Crown restoration pruning improves the structure, form, and appearance of trees
which have been severely topped, vandalized, or damaged by a storm.

Vista Pruning – Vista pruning is selective thinning of framework limbs or specific areas of the crown
to allow a view of an object from a predetermined point. Essentially, it opens a “window” through the
trees for a view.

Clean Out Pruning - Cleaning out a tree includes removal of dead, dying or diseased branchwood, broken branches, or stubs left from previous tree surgery operations together with all unwanted objects, which may include fungal fruit bodies, ivy and/or other climbing plants, nails, redundant cable bracing, rope swings.

For more information on tree care in Faidfield CT area please click here