THE LEAFLET
Pruning Mount Olivet
Last week, Mount Olivet Cemetery witnessed a crucial event in the realm of tree care as Casey Trees orchestrated a specialized pruning operation. This meticulous task, open to our arborists and a few of our specialized volunteers with pruning knowledge and training, was focused on enhancing the well-being of 40 trees within the area. As we mentioned last week, piloting community pruning programs can help distribute the responsibility for tree care more broadly, as well as foster a sense of community ownership and environmental stewardship.
While the removal of broken or diseased wood can be undertaken at any time, structural pruning is most effective during the dormant season (from December to mid-March). This period, when deciduous trees shed their leaves, provides an opportune moment to assess and evaluate the tree’s structure. Pruning stands as a paramount procedure in the maintenance of trees. The act of pruning young trees is a proven method to foster a robust and healthy branching structure, significantly increasing the likelihood of a tree maintaining its structural integrity. In contrast to their counterparts in forests, landscape trees demand a heightened level of care to preserve both their structural soundness and aesthetic appeal.
Urban trees that undergo appropriate pruning during their early stages necessitate less corrective pruning as they mature, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable growth pattern. It is crucial to recognize that each cut made during this developmental period has the potential to alter the tree’s growth trajectory. Setting clear objectives for pruning is essential, especially when dealing with young trees, where the primary goal is to enhance tree structure. Poor pruning practices can inflict lasting damage, with wounds that the tree must overcome, remaining a part of the tree indefinitely.
While online resources and instructional videos are valuable, they cannot replace the expertise of an arborist. Pruning demands an understanding of tree biology, as improper techniques can lead to lasting harm or a shortened lifespan for the tree. For those concerned about the well-being of a young established tree or in need of structural pruning, Casey Trees offers the services of Certified Arborists. To request an evaluation, simply fill out an inquiry, and our team will be in touch. We prioritize responses based on our current capacity.
