Tree and shrub trimming is important for aesthetic reasons and to encourage the growth of strong, healthy trees and shrubs.

Flowering trees set their blossoms the year before they bloom. Therefore, they won’t bloom if these flower buds are trimmed off the tree. The best rule is to always trim flowering trees within 3 weeks of when they finish blooming. That should prevent you from inadvertently removing buds containing next year’s flower show.

Along with proper planting, trimming is one of the most important plant care practices to maintain or enhance the health of the plant. Proper, knowledgeable tree trimming is very beneficial. Improper trimming, however, can be detrimental to tree health and in some instances lead to declines or mortality. In an urban environment, trimming shade trees to maintain health, aesthetically shape the trees or minimize safety risks is a common practice.

The most influential time for trimming is when the tree is young. A young tree should be trimmed every one to three years for the first 10 to 15 years. During this time, a knowledgeable trimmer will make specific corrections to the branching habits in order to avoid future problems and achieve an intended form.

Tree topping (removing the upper crown) is not an acceptable tree trimming method (unless the upper portion is deadwood or declining). It adversely affects the health and longevity of trees. It causes a profusion of weakly attached branches at the top. This does not make trees safer. It destroys the natural form.

In summary, the objective of pruning is to produce strong, healthy, attractive plants. By understanding how, when and why to prune, and by following a few simple principles, this objective can be achieved, extending the life of your trees while keeping them as attractive features of your property.