3 Ways Trimming Your Tree Helps It Stay Healthy
Trees are like any other plant that grows in your yard when it comes to the need for regular maintenance. When trees aren't trimmed throughout their lives, the branches grow in all directions. That detracts from the appearance of the tree, creates too much shade in your yard, and it can even make your tree unhealthy.
It takes many years for a tree to reach maturity, and those years may be lost if the tree has to be cut down once it gets big because it's a hazard or unhealthy. Here's how tree trimming can help your tree stay healthier.
1. Tree Trimming Improves a Tree's Structure
Trimming throughout a tree's life keeps wild branches from getting large enough to cause trouble with your tree's structure. Large branches that grow too close together can scrape when the wind blows. This damages the bark, and that makes it easier for insects to invade and for fungal infections to take hold.
When a tree trimming service works on your tree, they cut back branches that aren't growing in a way that makes the tree sturdy and straight. This not only helps the tree stay healthy but also improves the appearance of the tree as it matures.
2. Trimmed Trees Get More Sun and Air Circulation
Another reason to trim trees that have thick growth is to allow more sun and air to reach the trunk of the tree. The tree trimming service can thin a tree that has a canopy that's so thick very little sun reaches the ground or the tree's trunk.
By improving airflow and sun exposure, the tree will be healthier and fungal infections won't grow as easily. Plus, the grass under the tree will be healthier, and the sidewalk will get more sunlight so algae and mold won't grow.
3. Trimmed Trees Grow Healthier Branches
A tree has to send nutrients to twisted branches, damaged branches, and branches growing in the wrong directions just like it has to circulate nutrients to the rest of the tree. When the bad branches are trimmed away, the tree can focus on sending water and nutrients to the good branches so they get healthy and strong.
Just like pruning a tree helps it grow more fruit or flowers, trimming helps the branches that are left on your tree grow faster and stronger. This makes your tree more attractive and a more valuable asset to your property.
It's good to start trimming a tree when it's still young, once it's been established in your yard. Trimming is much easier when the branches are small and close to the ground. However, trees grow continuously, so you may even need to have a mature tree trimmed, especially if some branches die out or if the branches start growing toward a power line or your roof.