Proper pruning is essential for maintaining healthy and beautiful trees. Different pruning techniques, such as crown cleaning, thinning, raising, and reduction, each serve a unique purpose. Crown cleaning removes dead or diseased branches, while crown thinning improves air movement and light penetration, promoting overall tree health.

Not all trees require staking, and improper staking may weaken or injure a tree. A tree left unstaked will develop a better root system and trunk. If you need to stake a tree, use two short stakes, one on either side of the root ball, and remove them as soon as the tree stands on its own, usually within a year.

An arborist can reduce your liability by identifying and addressing hazardous tree conditions. They can also save you time and money by applying professional knowledge to prevent damage or injury, plant appropriate trees, and train young growth. Arborists learn proper tree care practices and can recommend ways to save trees from pests, diseases, and unintentional damage.

Trees come in all shapes and sizes; choosing the right tree for the right place will save you problems in the long run. When selecting a tree, look at the site carefully to ensure there is enough room for the tree’s top and roots. Select healthy trees with no wounds and avoid trees that are root bound for successful tree planting.