When taking care of trees, people use two main terms: pruning and trimming. Some people might say they are one and the same, but there is a big difference between them! In this post, Tree Pro Ohio discusses the differences between tree pruning and tree trimming. We also provide tips on how to care for your trees properly. Let's get started!

Tree trimming is the process of removing branches that are growing into power lines or buildings. This helps to keep the tree healthy and prevent property damage. Trimming also helps to improve the tree's appearance.

Trimming often involves cutting down excessive branches from plants like trees, shrubs, and hedges. Tree trimming in this context exclusively refers to trees. Extreme growth can prevent sunlight exposure to most parts of the tree, inhibiting growth. They also restrict the availability of additional branches to moisture and nutrients. The tree's general health and longevity are ensured via trimming. Most people we work with at Tree Pro Ohio look to us for tree trimming for aesthetic reasons. Untended trees have scraggly and uneven shapes due to the overgrown branches.

The frequency of tree pruning or tree trimming depends on the type of tree and its location. For example, trees growing near power lines will need to be trimmed more often than those not located near power lines.

If you are unsure about how often to prune or trim your tree, you can consult with a local tree care professional, such as Tree Pro Ohio. We will be able to assess your tree and provide you with specific recommendations.

We're often asked, when is the best time of year to get tree service? It depends on your goal when it comes to tree trimming and tree pruning. Any time of year is a good opportunity to perform light pruning or to remove dead branches. In the absence of that, general seasonal guidelines are shown below.

• Winter pruning is often the best time to prune a tree. During the winter, most trees are dormant. Choosing to prune in the winter often results in an explosion of new growth in the spring, assuming your tree is otherwise healthy. Usually, the 2nd half of winter is the best time to prune after the coldest temperatures have passed.

• Summer pruning helps slow the growth of particular branches you don't want growing. Depending on how and what is pruned, summer pruning can help stunt the development of a tree or branch. The summer is also a great time to remove dead branches since they're easier to identify. 

• Fall pruning is usually not recommended. This is the time of year that trees begin to go dormant. In dormancy, wounds heal more slowly, so pruning could invite pests or fungus.

Choosing a tree pruning company 

Taking care of trees is important for the health of the tree and the safety of your property. By knowing the difference between tree pruning and tree trimming, you can make sure that your tree is getting the care it needs. If you have any further questions about tree care in Columbus or Central Ohio, please feel free to contact Tree Pro Ohio.