Dangers of Over Pruning Part 2
In our last post, we went over some of the dangers homeowners as well as arborists face when confronted with on overpruned tree. Thankfully most arborists and tree care companies are legitimate and follow industry standards. As a consumer or property owner, you need to watch out for unlicensed companies and those with a significant lack of experience. Tree pruning is not just hard labor, it is an art and a delicate one at that.
The increased risk of damage due to wind is a real issue. Excessive raising of lower limbs puts far more stress on the trunk as well as the roots. If both are strong, this shouldn’t really be a problem. However if there are existing structural integrity issues or problems involving exposed roots, a leaning tree, or disease, then this could become a major liability and cause for collapse in the event of a serious storm.
The strength of individual branches become weaker due to a much larger focus on them. Since excessive pruning has been performed on the tree and many of the existing branches were trimmed away, all of that stress caused by wind or other external factors is now solely directed toward the remaining branches. Trees that contain long limbs with foliage at the end of the branches are now more likely to break.
So in conclusion, beyond all of the safety risks/hazards that are abundant and the pure un-naturalness of over pruning, please don’t engage in this activity. Make sure your tree care company or arborist is well versed with the art of pruning. Your trees should be natural looking and healthy, not unsightly safety hazards. If you have questions about a tree pruning or would like to schedule a free quote, give us a call today at (828) 633-4357.