Tree Care Basics: A Starter Guide

Top Tree Trimming Technique Tips

14 May 2021

Johnni Knight

Tree trimming is not as easy as you might think. You can't just lop off branches here and there and expect to like the results. Plus, trimming in this haphazard manner is not healthy for the tree. Usually, for the best results, you are best off hiring a professional to trim your trees. However, if you do decide to trim the trees yourself, here are some tree trimming technique tips you can implement for better results.

Use big, sharp shears.

To get a good trim, you need the right tools for the job. Set aside any small nippers or clippers. These are really only meant for trimming bushes and hedges with thin branches. Big shears do a much better job of trimming full-size tree branches. Look for ones with long handles so you can get plenty of leverage when cutting through thicker branches. Also, make sure your shears are sharp. Most hardware stores will sharpen shears for you, and you should have them sharpened at least once a year. Shears that are too dull will tear at the branch material, creating a cut wound that's tough for the tree to heal.

Cut with confidence.

When you position the shears on a branch and decide to make a cut, proceed with confidence. Do not hesitate and try to gently close the shears. This will create a jagged cut that does more harm than good. Cut with swift, confident chops, and you'll create cleaner wounds that will heal better.

Remove whole branches.

Don't just remove the tips of branches. Tree branches grow from the tips, so by removing this part, you're preventing the branch from growing, which may ultimately cause it to die. If there's a branch you want to trim away, you need to remove the entire thing. Position your shears about a half-inch from where the branch meets the tree trunk, and make the cut.

Sanitize between trees.

When you finish trimming one tree and are ready to move to the next, make sure you sanitize your shears. Either rub them with alcohol or dunk them in some bleach water. This will kill the bacteria and fungi that can cause tree infections, helping to ensure your tree doesn't get sick after its trimming appointment. 

Tree trimming is all about the technique. If you adhere to the technique tips above, then you'll be off to a really good start. You may still need some practice, but you'll at least have the basics covered.

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