A lot goes into the proper care of a tree in Chilliwack, BC. Trimming and pruning are part of that care. Although many homeowners use the terms interchangeably, trimming a tree and pruning a tree are two different things.

What is Tree Trimming?

 Tree trimming is the process of cutting and shaping branches for aesthetic purposes. Trees can grow branches that shoot out in various directions, and the growth can be uneven, making a tree look scraggly or unbalanced. Trimming allows property owners to cut back unruly branches and shape a tree more appealingly.

When Should a Tree Be Trimmed?

Trimming a tree is ideally performed with a trimmer or clipper. This powered tool makes it easier to clip through thick branches and shape the tree properly. The timing for trimming is not as strict as pruning requires. Whenever stray branches begin to grow, a little trim is helpful.
Some experts recommend trimming a tree twice a year, with at least once occurring after the flowering season. Trimming with less weight on the branches can be easier and safer for those doing the trimming.

What is Tree Pruning?

Although it may seem similar to trimming, pruning is a bit different. Pruning focuses on the health and growth of the tree. The tree's overall appearance and general health are considered before any pruning is performed.
 
The primary purpose of pruning is to remove dead, diseased, loose, or broken branches from the tree. This helps to maintain the overall health of the tree. Some branches may also be removed or cut back to promote fuller growth and a stronger tree. Unbalanced or awkward trees are prone to breakage during a storm. Proper pruning helps to direct a tree to grow stronger and healthier.
 

When Should You Prune A Tree?

The main tool used to prune a tree is called a shear. There are two types of shears. A hand shear is used to cut leaves, buds, and thin twigs, whereas lopping shears are used to cut thicker branches. These two tools provide the best resource for pruning almost any tree or shrub.
 
With each type of tree, shrub, or plant, the best pruning time depends on the blooming cycle of that plant. It is best to prune while the plant is dormant. For most trees, winter is the best time for pruning since the branches have fewer leaves, making pruning less complicated or dangerous.
 
Another benefit of waiting for the dormant season to prune a tree is a time to heal. The tree has time to recover from the cuts and damage caused by the pruning before the weather gets warmer. When the weather gets warmer, bugs and diseases are more prevalent and can invade the vulnerable tree.

Contacting a Tree Services Professional

Proper pruning and trimming techniques are important for maintaining a tree's health and also crucial for maintaining safety with larger trees. For those unfamiliar with tree trimming or pruning, contacting our Chilliwack tree service professionals may be a good idea. Chilliwack Tree Services can provide tree trimming and tree pruning for any property in the Chilliwack, BC area.

Environmental studies show that soil compaction is the leading cause of tree death, and construction projects are the most common reason soil compaction occurs. Construction companies use heavy machinery on the soil and create damaged tree feeder roots.
 
Some trees are tolerant and won't show damage for years, but once the injuries happen, the trees are never the same again. New home buyers can protect their trees by hiring a tree arborist to monitor the landscaping during the construction project.

The Risk of Soil Compaction

For healthy tree roots, the soil must offer the trees at least 50% pore space, and the area must have adequate water and air for the trees. During construction, workers move heavy equipment and walk around on the soil.
 
The only way to protect these roots is to block access to the roots since most of the tree feeder roots are closer to the soil's surface. An active barrier where the roots flow stops soil compaction near all trees. Chilliwack Tree Services can provide helpful options for protecting the roots during construction.

Trunk or Limb Damage

Construction projects in Chilliwack, BC, could lead to permanent tree damage. If the workers aren't careful, the tree trunk or limbs become damaged due to sudden impacts. Even the most minor injuries provide access points for decay and fungi. With a tree expert, the new homeowner has proper protection against these issues and stops heavy equipment-related problems.

Digging and Trenching Damage

Tree roots expand throughout the yard, and the length of the roots equates to three times the height of each tree. By hiring a tree expert, the service provider can measure the length of the roots and create a protective barrier around the roots. By staking off the area around the roots, the contractors stay off the roots.

When digging trenches, the crew must avoid the path of the trees and create a different route. The trees will die if the workers dig up or damage the roots.

The Effects of Trees and Shrubs

A professional arborist knows when to relocate trees and bushes. In landscaping, shrubs and other trees surround the design, but if there are too many plants together, the trees won't thrive. On the other hand, some trees don't have wind and sun protection if there aren't surrounding plants.

How Soil Grading Affects the Roots

The construction contractors shouldn't grade the soil where there are trees. The changes in the soil expose the roots and could cause a variety of damage. A tree expert presents alternative options in these areas to protect the tree and avoid disturbing the soil.

How Pre-Planning With a Tree Expert Helps

Chilliwack Tree Services can review the landscaping layout and the new construction project. Instead of letting the construction crew take complete control, the tree expert can create methods for protecting the trees first, outline new walking paths for the team, and add barriers around problem areas.
 
For new homeowners, landscaping is just as important as the home itself. Contractors complete new landscaping during the construction project, and the installations are a significant investment. A professional arborist can complete steps to protect the existing trees and prevent additional damage or tree death later.

Excellent Practices for Tree Preservation

The service provider hires a tree expert to create a sound tree preservation plan. The first task is to set up zones based on where the trees are on the lot to keep workers away from the plants. New home buyers can get a tree preservation plan with their builder contract.

An arborist creates a site map outlining the location of all the trees and plants that require protection. The owner must review the plan and make updates according to where structures may be removed or added to the property.
 
Tree experts also define critical tree protection zones to reduce the potential for damage. If the trees are old, the protection zone can expand.
 
Property owners needing tree protection on their new property need to hire an arborist or tree expert in Chilliwack, BC. With the best protection plan, the owners will avoid any tree losses and keep the property and landscaping looking amazing long after the construction project. New home buyers are encouraged to contact Chilliwack Tree Services for an appointment today! 

Check out our previous post here --> ​Should I Trim or Remove a Tree Growing Close To My House?