The Potential Dangers Of Over-Trimming Trees

Tree trimming is an essential tree maintenance practice. Not only does pruning facilitate the healthy growth of trees, but it also enhances the aesthetics of your yard. In some cases, trimming prevents accidents or damage to property when a tree falls unexpectedly. Although trimming is a vital tree care practice, over-trimming it has adverse effects. Here are the dangers of excessively trimming your trees.

Decay and Diseases

The cuts arborists make to trees are wounds. The tree needs some time to heal from these wounds. Therefore, the fewer the cuts, the better. Too many cuts can destroy your tree. This is because they expose your tree to diseases and decay. 

For example, fungi like brown rot can infect wood exposed through open wounds and spread through the whole tree. The tree is also susceptible to bacterial canker infections during the growing season.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Poor Aesthetics

Excessively trimming a tree interferes with foliage. Foliage is what makes food for trees. Cutting too much of your tree leaves it susceptible to nutritional deficiencies. Over time, the branches become too weak to fight against the wind or to fend off insect invasions and diseases.

Additionally, a tree's foliage protects it from sun exposure. Removing too much foliage will cause the tree to sprout excessively. Eventually, the tree will create spouts on the interior. You will have to trim the trees regularly to maintain their shape; otherwise, they will look unsightly. Also, interior sprouting exposes too much of your tree to the sun. This can burn and destroy the tree.

Increased Risk of Falling

Over-trimming causes a tree to be unstable. When the growth of trees accelerates in the spring, the tree's weight is unevenly distributed. Consequently, the tree is more likely to fall and cause property damage or personal injury. Severe tree trimming also makes it difficult for trees to recover from losing branches and limbs. The trees have to work harder to grow in the spring and, therefore, use up a lot of energy.

Vulnerability to Infestations

An excessively trimmed tree is weak, making it vulnerable to infesting insects. For example, the flathead borer mainly attacks weak plum trees. These pests lay eggs on the tree. When the eggs are hatched, the larvae of these pests start to attack the tree trunk which can destroy the tree.

In Closing

When it comes to tree care and maintenance, you should hire an arborist. DIY tree trimming will not only be costly in terms of damage, but it can also weaken your trees. Seek recommendations for local arborists from your family and friends. You can also compare the quotes of different arborists online to find the best person to care for and maintain your trees. For more information, contact a tree trimming service, such as A + A Tree & Landscaping LLC.


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