Tree Trimming

Discussion in 'Crops & Gardens' started by Peter Renfro, Jan 18, 2021.

  1. Peter Renfro

    Peter Renfro Veteran Member
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    I have two maples in my front yard. I planted them about 15 years ago so I am guessing they are about twenty years old.

    Can I cut the lower branches so I can mow under them? A couple of them are quite substantial.
    And if yes, when? I don't think it has been cold enough this winter for them to go totally dormant. I am also afraid that with sap rising in just a few weeks, that it may be harmful.
     
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  2. Trevalius Guyus

    Trevalius Guyus Veteran Member
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    As a Certified Arborist, ISA, I can advise you on all tree matters.

    "Quite substantial" doesn't give me any information. What are the diameters of the limbs you wish to remove?
     
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  3. Trevalius Guyus

    Trevalius Guyus Veteran Member
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    Hmm....

    Let's assume the branches you want to remove are about ⅔ the diameter of the parent trunk. By the standards we operate under, you should only remove up to 25% of a given tree's total canopy.

    If you're in the clear, per the above, then it's important to make proper cuts. Make sure to not make flush cuts. You want to leave each branch bark collar, the slightly swollen area at the base of most major limbs. Wound wood will grow in that area, to help seal the wound. Make undercuts first, so the branch doesn't strip the bark, down the trunk.

    As for timing: Most Maple enthusiasts advise pruning during the late winter, early spring. Others tell you to wait until all buds have opened, and leaves developed.

    I trim any time a client needs the job done. I have never had any problems with doing so. Yes, there are potential issues with sap exudation and leaf litter, but if you keep things clean, removing leaf litter and sawdust, you should be fine. With sap, I spray a 10% bleach solution on any wood that's "sappy," to discourage insect attacks. Again, no problems. Do not paint your cuts! That discourages proper wound healing, no matter what others may tell you.
     
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  4. John Brunner

    John Brunner Senior Staff
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    @Trevalius Guyus

    Have you ever used this stuff?
    [​IMG]

    I used it extensively on a few dogwoods I kept cut back so that remained proportional to the yard/landscape.

    It always made sense to me to use it, but I don't know if it really makes a difference.
     
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  5. Trevalius Guyus

    Trevalius Guyus Veteran Member
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    Should never be used. It impedes proper healing.
     
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  6. Trevalius Guyus

    Trevalius Guyus Veteran Member
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    Important: Paint ALL CUTS on Oaks, for Oak Wilt prophylaxis. The pluses outweigh the minuses, only in this case. I am a former Certified Oak Wilt Specialist, ISA.

    Use the least costly flat black spray paint you can find. You are using it to mask the odor of the sap, not to physically seal cuts.
     
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  7. Peter Renfro

    Peter Renfro Veteran Member
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    Thanks. They are nice trees and I don't want to screw them up. I think I will wait until after theyleaf.
     
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