Professional Tree Care

Tree Pruning as Health Care

At Bark River Tree Service, pruning is more than simply cutting limbs. We consider it an art and an integral part of a long-lasting plant health care program. Properly pruned trees resist storm damage, pest and disease infestation, and have a more natural look.

Homeowners who rush to accept the services of a tree care company are frequently taken advantage of by fly-by-night amateurs with a pickup truck and a chainsaw. The result of this is poor quality work and greater long-term costs. It is best to choose a certified arborist tree care professional. We are also fully licensed and insured.

This state record tree required pruning, cabling, and balancing to preserve the life of the tree. Bark River Tree Service was called in to do the job because of their reputation for excellence and knowledge of the tree service industry.

When to Prune

The dormant season, late fall or winter, is the best time to prune although dead branches can be removed at any time. Pruning during the dormant season minimizes sap loss and subsequent stress to the tree. It also minimizes the risk of fungus infection or insect infestation, as both are likely to be in dormancy at the same time as the tree. In the case of deciduous trees, pruning when the leaves are off will give you a better idea of how the pruning will affect the shape of the tree.

Types of Pruning

• Structural and Corrective Pruning – One of our main objectives at Bark River Tree Service is to promote proper pruning techniques. When a tree is young, it is essential to train the plant to grow properly and without structural defects. Unfortunately, many trees are left to grow wild for too long. Most of these trees have weak limbs and are often badly damaged from wind and storms. These weak trees are extremely vulnerable to pest and disease invasion. Trees should be inspected or pruned periodically to maintain proper form and health.
• Crown Thinning – Crown thinning is necessary on certain species of trees. Excessive competition between limbs can lead to structural defects and dieback. Selectively removing competing growth will allow the remaining limbs to grow with proper taper and form. Sunlight will filter through the tree creating much needed interior growth, and the tree will live a longer healthier life.
• Crown Raising – Crown raising consists of the removal of lower branches to provide clearance.
• Crown Reduction/Shaping – Crown shaping is not usually necessary on larger trees, but with smaller trees such as flowering ornamentals and fruit trees. A plant that has never been properly pruned is most likely out of proportion and is at risk of losing its natural form forever.
• Crown Restoration – Crown restoration pruning improves the structure, form, and appearance of trees which have been severely topped, vandalized, or damaged by a storm.
• Vista Pruning – Vista pruning is selective thinning of framework limbs or specific areas of the crown to allow a view of an object from a predetermined point. Essentially, it opens a "window" through the trees for a view.
  

Bracing and Cabling

Some trees are structurally weak because of their branching patterns and in order to be preserved, require bracing and cabling. Bracing and cabling protects the tree from strain caused by wind and storms. Bracing and cabling extends the life of the tree, and enjoyment for the customer.