Tree Trimming Services

The Fundamental Principles of Tree Pruning:
Reasons to prune your trees

This article is tailored for San Luis Obispo County, California, the City of Arroyo Grande, and surrounding areas, however the principles will apply broadly to urban forests everywhere. To begin, let's define the concept of an urban forest. An urban forest consists of trees within parks, private and commercial properties, open spaces, greenbelts, and other locations in our cities. These tree assets constitute a vital component of our larger ecosystem and give numerous benefits that can often be overlooked. (We will be doing another article about the benefits that trees give us soon!)

Let's address the reasons behind pruning our trees. Why take the time, effort and expense to do this or have it done at all? There is a list of key reasons to have trees pruned by small-scale property owners like homeowners or entities such as cities, counties, state and local educational campuses, parks, greenbelts, utility providers and transportation providers such as railroads and airports. These include pruning for traffic flow on roadways, ensuring the accessibility of sidewalks, maintaining the usability of parking and travel areas, and safeguarding the integrity of power transmission along utility lines.

We have 25 years experience, 15+ years certified, with a combined experience of 55+ years. We are the only Certified Arborist Owned company in Nipomo, Arroyo Grande and Santa Maria, Pismo Beach and Grover Beach.

Contact Us Today For All Your Tree Care Needs!
(805) 474-8013 david.brown@acetreeservices.com

Tree Trimming - Two Approaches

One could say two distinct approaches and philosophies govern pruning practices. The first, "vegetation control," is often executed by untrained personnel with limited consideration for the methods employed and what the long-term implications for the tree's health and structure may be. This approach, while cost-effective initially, later proves more expensive and diminishes the lifespan and beauty of our trees.

The second approach involves pruning according to a specific plan, using the knowledge and expertise of a Certified Arborist or a similarly qualified professional. A primary and crucial distinction between these two methods lies in the state of the tree post-pruning and the way it may respond.

Tree Trimming - Over-Pruning

Over-pruned or poorly pruned trees will almost always respond with extra fast replacement of the removed tissues which means the tree will grow back very quickly and look like it needs more pruning, sometimes in as little as a year’s time. Also, over-pruned trees will grow more water sprouts or small shoots along the branches for the the same reasons.

Properly pruned trees, pruned according to a sound plan developed by a credentialed person will produce the needed results of the pruning for the purpose needed, but may not look so thin all over, will not be shaped like a ball or a cylinder, will not have their dignity as a species removed, and it will be less obvious that they were pruned. They will also have been pruned using the I.S.A. Standards for Tree Pruning. This will be a happier and healthier tree. One that looks great looks like a nice example of their species and is not prompted to go into very fast emergency growth mode to try to replace the lost foliage it needs to make food and continue to grow. Also, the objective of the pruning will have been achieved with the fewest possible cuts, instead of having been thinned and stripped of foliage for the entirety of the tree. The size of the tree can also be controlled using these same proper pruning methods and without looking obviously topped or sheared over.

Tree Trimming - Reduce Risk

The last reason to prune that we have not discussed is pruning to reduce the risk of personal or property damage or damage to the tree itself. This reason to prune can be explained by your International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist. Routine pruning by ACE Certified Tree Care in Arroyo Grande and the surrounding areas, automatically includes education and pruning for risk reduction without having to be asked about it and only where needed on trees near buildings, features or other property, and our pruning plans always take into considerations and work with our customer’s budget. We always strive to do the most necessary tree work for customers, getting the important items done that will keep them and their trees happy and close to budget.

Investing a little money when you have it in your trees, pays dividends that multiply as the benefits of your trees grow and multiply!

We KNOW the reasons to prune and not to prune your trees and will be ready and able to share that with you!
David Brown
I.S.A. Certified Arborist
No. WE-7992A

The Benefits of Tree Trimming

The benefits of regular and informed tree pruning extend far beyond mere aesthetics. From ensuring the safety and accessibility of our public spaces to safeguarding vital infrastructure and promoting the long-term health and structural integrity of our urban forest, the reasons to prune are compelling. Therefore, we strongly encourage all property owners in San Luis Obispo County, and indeed across the nation, to engage in active consideration of having their trees pruned regularly by qualified professionals. Investing in proactive tree care is an investment in the safety, beauty, and longevity of our communities and the invaluable green assets that enrich them. Don't wait for a problem to arise – take a proactive step towards a healthier and safer environment today.

We have 25 years experience, 15+ years certified, with a combined experience of 55+ years. We are the only Certified Arborist Owned company in Nipomo, Arroyo Grande and Santa Maria, Pismo Beach and Grover Beach.

Contact Us Today For All Your Tree Care Needs!
(805) 474-8013 david.brown@acetreeservices.com