When your tree begs for a trim, knowing what not to do is important. Pruning is an art, and in the wrong hands, the results can look like a bad bowl cut. To make sure your tree looks its best, here are some common tree-trimming mistakes to avoid.

Cutting Too Much

A little bit of trim here and there is great, but don’t go overboard. Too much pruning can leave your tree looking bald and lopsided. Make sure to take your time and not go crazy with the shears. Otherwise, it might be a while before your tree recovers its former glory. Your tree will look less like a majestic beauty and more like a blundering mess if you’ve taken too much off.

Cutting at the Wrong Time

It’s also important to ensure you’re cutting your tree at the right time of year. Most trees do best when trimmed during the winter rather than when they are dormant. Doing it at any other time can cause undue stress to the tree and even damage it. Look at the calendar before you grab your shears and ensure you’re trimming when it’s best for your tree.

Incorrect Angle

It’s also a good idea to ensure you’re cutting the branches at an angle. Cutting them straight across can cause damage and leave your tree looking patchy and off-balance. Instead, angle your cuts so the branch is facing away from the trunk. This will help to keep the tree looking healthy and balanced.

No Pruning Plan

It’s important to have a plan when you’re trimming your tree. Without a plan, getting carried away and cutting off too much can be easy. Make sure you have an idea of what you want your tree to look like before you start snipping away. Having a plan will also help you ensure that all the branches are even and balanced.

Lack of Cleaning

Make sure you’re cleaning up after yourself when you’re done trimming your tree. Cleaning up all the debris and fallen leaves will help to keep your tree healthy and looking great. Plus, it’s an excellent way to ensure your tree gets its proper nourishment. Also, make sure to clean your tools thoroughly before storing them away to avoid the spread of any diseases.

Taking a few simple precautions when trimming your tree will go a long way in helping you avoid any common mistakes. Taking the time to plan out your pruning, ensuring you’re trimming at the right time, cutting at the right angle, and cleaning up afterwards are all important steps to ensuring your tree looks great. If you cannot do it yourself, you can always hire a professional tree trimmer who can help ensure the job is done right. Contact Cordwin Tree Service, a professional tree service in Ocala, FL that can help you trim and prune your trees safely and efficiently, today for more information!