Certified Arborists
Certified Arborists
Certified Arborists
Certified Arborists
Tree trimming and pruning in NH should have a clear purpose, according to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), because every cut can change how a tree grows.
The ISA says the main reasons to prune are to remove dead branches, improve form and reduce risk. Other reasons include improving light and air movement and providing clearance. The ISA also notes that routine thinning does not necessarily improve tree health and that heavy pruning can stress a tree.
The ISA recommends removing no more than 25 percent of the crown at one time. Mature trees should have less removed, and younger trees can tolerate more.
UNH Extension says overgrown fruit trees should be pruned over several years, with no more than one third of the canopy removed in a single year.
UNH Extension says most pruning is done at the end of the dormant season, because it avoids winter cold injury, makes flower buds easy to recognize and lets wounds close quickly. The ISA agrees that pruning before spring growth is generally best.
UNH Extension advises pruning spring-blooming ornamentals such as lilac, rhododendron and bigleaf hydrangea right after they flower, because late dormant pruning removes buds that are already set. For hedges and shrubs, see our hedge maintenance and ornamental pruning services.
The ISA says routine removal of weak, diseased or dead limbs can be done at any time of year. UNH Extension recommends avoiding late summer and fall pruning, because wounds can die back, and the ISA advises avoiding heavy pruning of live tissue just after the spring growth flush.
The ISA calls topping “not an acceptable pruning technique.” Cutting branches back to stubs triggers a burst of weak sprouts, leaves large wounds that are harder for a tree to defend, and exposes inner bark to sunburn. When a larger limb must be shortened, the ISA recommends cutting back to a side branch at least one third the diameter of the limb being removed.
Ready when you are
The ISA recommends hiring a professional arborist when pruning involves working above ground or using power equipment. Soul Tree Care’s lead arborist is an ISA Certified Arborist. Ask for a free quote.
Certified Arborists
