Regular trimming of trees is an important part of your property maintenance.  Trimming or pruning of trees helps to maintain their overall health while also maintaining a safer environment for family and friends to enjoy your property.

 

The best way to maintain your trees is to thin the crown, allowing a healthy flow of light to the tree and improving the distribution of resources so that the whole tree receives the available nutrients.

 

The goal is to reduce the overall height and breadth of the tree without drastically changing its size or shape.  By removing approximately 20% of the height and 20% of the width of the canopy, you can increase sunlight penetration and airflow to the remaining branches, improving the overall health and strength of the tree.

 

This type of trimming is a more effective approach to reducing the size of a tree versus the common practice of tree topping.  Topping is bad for the health of the tree as it drastically reduces the tree’s ability to produce food through photosynthesis (due to the lack of leaves), making the tree vulnerable to stress, disease, and insect damage.  It also creates wounds that are slow to heal, disfiguring the natural beauty of the tree.

 

Furthermore, topping often results in unsightly, weak, and rapidly growing new sprouts, defeating the purpose of height control.  Despite its popularity in Indiana, Purdue University has long discouraged the practice.  For more information see FAQ-14 Frequently Asked Question Series What’s Wrong with Topping?

 

K&K Tree Division has an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist on staff who can advise you on the proper trimming for your tree.  Contact us for a no cost, no obligation estimate.