| Tree Pruning Tips | | | | 3. Chainsaws - Are used for larger type branches |
| These pruning tips are for back yard home type | | | | that are more than 3 inches diameter. |
| of trees and not orchard tree type pruning. | | | | 4. Eyewear Goggles - Always wear eye |
| Pruning trees and shrubs now (January-April) will | | | | protection when pruning, shearing, cutting or doing |
| create a good looking landscaping tree and will | | | | any type of heavy gardening work. |
| increase the life span of any tree or plant. And if | | | | 5. Lopper shears - Are good for larger type |
| done correctly will increase the productivity of all | | | | branches normally about 1.5 inches or less in |
| fruit trees. | | | | diameter. |
| 1. If you are pruning to keep the tree size down | | | | Should you call a professional? |
| usually means the wrong tree was selected for | | | | A professional tree expert is called an "Arborist." |
| the landscaping area. | | | | Call one for larger type trees. Be sure they are |
| 2. You should prune dead, dying limbs or branches | | | | licensed, insured and bonded. This goes for any |
| that are diseased no matter where they are. | | | | type of landscaping professional. Also if there is a |
| 3. Prune any limbs or branches that are interfering | | | | power line involved call you local power line |
| with power lines, traffic and or visibility from | | | | company for further information. Do not tackle |
| streets. | | | | any large over hanging branch by yourself. |
| 4. Prune if branches are overhanging into your | | | | Do NOT prune larger type branches from trees |
| neighbors yard. Be sure to ask your neighbor if | | | | that are hanging over any type of electrical or |
| this is ok. | | | | power lines. Call a professional maintenance |
| 5. Rule of Thumb. Only prune if there is real | | | | landscaper. |
| reason to do so. | | | | Do not put any type of pruning sealer on a |
| Tools Needed for pruning | | | | trimmed off branch or limb. All trees and shrubs |
| 1. Hand shears - Are needed for pruning small | | | | have their own way of healing any cut or wound. |
| twigs and branches. | | | | Remember to always clean all pruning tool blades |
| 2. Pole Pruners -for pruning or cutting branches or | | | | with alcohol to avoid the spread of diseases. |
| limbs that are 6ft. or more off the ground. | | | | |