While different species of trees have different care needs, when it comes to tree trimming or pruning, winter and early Spring are usually the best times of the year to get this job done.
Benefits of Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the health, vitally and structural integrity of your trees. There are many benefits to pruning your trees regularly, including:
- removing deadwood and dying branches
- opening up the tree canopy to more sunshine and airflow
- reducing the height and density of a tree
- stimulating new growth and
- improving the look and shape of the tree
Deciduous Trees Should Be Pruned When They Are Dormant
Deciduous trees lose their leaves in Autumn and spend winter in a dormant state. When trees are dormant, their sap flow is reduced, and they are far less stressed about losing branches. Pruning creates wounds in the tree where the wood is cut away. The trees compartmentalise the wound more easily over winter because the tree does not lose as much sap which can attract insect infestations, bacteria and mould. Winter is also a time when there are fewer bugs and other nasties around to infect your trees and cause problems such as rot.
In a dormant state, trees do not produce new growth or leaves for photosynthesis so they can focus all their energy on compartmentalising the cuts made by pruning and defending themselves against any germs or other pathogens in the environment.
Trees Should Be Pruned Before the Spring Storms
Another reason why winter and early Spring are the ideal times to prune your trees is to prepare for the strong winds and wild weather that Spring usually brings to Melbourne. Trees with overgrown limbs, crowded branches and deadwood can be dangerous trees. Reducing the height and weight of trees, especially around your home and other structures on your property can improve safety and avoid the cost, mess and disruption of tree limbs falling unexpectedly during a storm. A qualified arborist can inspect your property and let you know which trees need attention.
Dangerous Trees Should Be Pruned Immediately
While Winter is often the ideal time to trim trees and prepare them for the new growth that comes in Spring, any tree that is unsafe should be pruned or removed as soon as the risk has been identified.
Trees with insect infestations, cracks, rot, fungal infections or other signs of tree distress should be seen by an arborist straight away. These trees made need immediate remedial pruning, bracing or other tree care services. If the tree is unsafe and cannot be saved, then tree removal should be organised as soon as possible.
Find Out About Tree Pruning Rules in Your Area
Your local council may have rules and restrictions in relation to tree pruning. Depending on the type of tree, its location and proximity to your home, and the extent of the work you want to do, you may need to lodge a formal application with your council.
We can take you through the rules and regulations in your area and make sure that any tree pruning works carried out are compliant. This may include completing an arborist report to be submitted to council.
Get a Free No Obligation Quote
Professional tree pruning may be cheaper than you think. Call us today to arrange a qualified arborist to come out and inspect your trees. We’ll provide you with a detailed quote at no cost to you and with absolutely no obligation.
Taking the time to arrange regular pruning in winter will reward you with beautiful, healthy, safe trees all year round.