How To Trim Branches Yourself DIY

Arborist USA is the largest, most reliable experienced tree company that knows how to trim branches in Fort Worth, Texas and the DFW metroplex area.  We provide complete tree health care services, as well as any tree service you may need.  Our family-owned and locally-based company has cared for the trees of homeowners throughout our area for more than 25 years. 

It can be a risky business to attempt to do tree services yourself, as many of the skills required to do the job accurately and safely require many years of experience and professional training. 

That being said, our ISA certified arborist, tree care experts and a team of arbor care professionals are always here for you to answer any questions you have.  Contact us today at (817) 880-6130 and speak with our tree expert.  You can always count on us to be here for you!

What Is The Difference Between Trimming And Pruning A Tree?

Although both services enhance the appearance of your residential grounds, the purpose and timing of trimming branches versus pruning them are quite different.

Trimming Branches

Here below are techniques on how to trim branches yourself DIY. Lightly trimming a newly-planted tree is perfectly fine and safe.  Hand shears are used to cut off small dead branches and twigs and to shape the tree’s foliage.  Tree trimming is done to ensure the proper growth of trees and shrubs. 

Often, the tree’s foliage becomes crowded and some places do not receive adequate sunlight or air circulation.  It is fine to trim a tree or shrub any month of the year. 

A hedge trimmer can be used to shape the tree or shrub.  Be careful not to cut the small branches too much.  Shape the tree using either an electric or gas trimmer or a pair of hand shears.

Trim Branches Yourself

The purpose of pruning a tree is to protect the tree or shrub from developing unwanted diseases and to increase its growth potential.  Larger dead, broken or obviously diseased branches must be removed to prevent infectious agents from invading the tree. 

While hand shears are fine for small low-level branches or sprouts, thick branches or branches at higher elevation levels require lopping shears or a chainsaw.  Regular tree trimming maintenance is typically done twice a year; however, tree pruning is generally done annually.  The season is important, as fall is a season when it’s best not to prune.

I Have A Chainsaw.  Is That Okay To Use?

If the trimming you are wanting to do involves a chainsaw and a ladder, don’t do it!  It takes far more to trim and prune branches safely than just swinging a chainsaw!  Safety gear such as cabling, roping and scaffolds are necessary to prevent you and anyone else from suffering severe injury. 

If the tree you are wanting to trim is near a power line or has branches too heavy for you to handle yourself, then don’t attempt it and call a tree trimming expert.  Assuming that is not the case, these are steps to aid you in trimming branches yourself:

Safety Gear

Always wear eye goggles.  You don’t want a small branch or twig shooting into your eyes.  Headgear such as a hard hat is always a smart choice.  Remember, it’s always best to have more protective gear than you end up needing rather than not having enough protective gear!

Use The Proper Tool To Trim Branches

Select either hand shears or an electric or gas hedge trimmer.  Be sure the tool you choose is sharp and clean.  Clean tools are important to prevent tree and plant diseases from spreading.

Know The Parts Of The Tree

The branch collar is the area under the branch that appears as if it’s swollen.  This section connects the branch to the tree’s trunk.  The branch bark ridge is the spot between the branch and trunk that’s a little higher than the branch.

Select The Spot Where You Want To Cut

Choose a spot just past the branch collar.  You want to cut it as close to the tree’s trunk as possible so as not to leave a stub but not cutting into the branch collar.  For a new branch less than an inch in diameter, cut it at a 45-degree angle. This article will show how to properly trim a branch.

For thicker branches, cut approximately ten to fifteen inches above the branch collar on the underside of the branch.  Move a couple of inches past that cut and cut into the top side of the branch.  Once the branch falls, make the last cut just past the branch collar.

Can I Just Hire A Guy That Drives Through My Neighborhood?

This is your choice, as the trees belong to you.  However, many do-it-yourselfers that drive around are not licensed, insured and bonded.  What happens if they cause damage to your trees or property?  Who would be held accountable if they injure themselves on your property?  The answers to those questions are not pleasant ones for you!  Improper tree trimming is capable of causing serious injury and end up killing your tree.

Is Trimming A Tree Really Dangerous?

Definitely!  When lightly trimming and shaping small trees there is not much danger providing you follow the above-mentioned guidelines.  However, trimming larger branches at higher levels should be entrusted to experienced arbor care professionals. 

Many serious accidents have resulted, even fatality accidents, due to inexperienced individuals mistakenly thinking to trim a tree is easy to work.  You should never attempt to trim a large, tall tree by yourself.

Should I Call A Professional?

It is always best to entrust the difficult task of trimming tree branches to the best arborist in Fort Worth, Texas.  Having an extensive clientele of satisfied homeowners and businesses who’ve had their trees safely and successfully trimmed by us speaks for itself! 

We are licensed, insured and bonded to guarantee that you, your home and all those present on your property are always safe.  We always provide you with a free consultation and estimate. 

Give us a call at (817) 880-6130 and schedule your complimentary consultation with our tree expert.  At Arborist USA, your safety comes first with us!  We look forward to meeting you!

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