Proper Palm Pruning

 When considering pruning your palms, you may think you need to “hurricane prune” your palm tree. Hold that thought before you do more harm than good. 

There is a misunderstanding that by removing almost all palm fronds, leaving only the youngest few, you create a more wind-resistant palm. 

However, evidence suggests that it is not correct, and “hurricane pruning” actually weakens palm trees and they could become more vulnerable to damage.

Proper Pruning Techniques:

So what are some better pruning techniques when it comes to palms? First, only completely dead fronds should be removed. While yellow leaves may be unsightly, they are an indication of something going on. These leaves should be left on as they are still helping to support the palm through mobile nutrients, such as potassium (K).

A healthy palm tree should have a 360-degree canopy of leaves. However, often they are overpruned due to nutrient deficiency symptoms. Never remove any leaves above the horizon of three to nine (on a clock).

One other thing to consider when pruning palms are the flowers and fruit. It is fine to leave them or prune them. If you have a palm that produces fruit that you do not want littering the yard, it is easier to trim off the lighter flower stalk rather than waiting to prune a heavy fruit stalk.

Hiring a Certified Arborist:

Please keep in mind, if you cannot prune a palm tree or any tree safely, it is best to hire a Certified Arborist to complete the task. These professionals are trained in proper pruning techniques, safety, and are up to date on the latest recommendations through continuing education classes. 

Where should the pruning cut be made when removing a branch?

Cut off the branch just beyond the branch collar and branch bark ridge. The branch collar is the swollen area at the base of the branch. The branch bark ridge is the dark, rough bark ridge that separates the branch from the main branch or trunk. 

Pruning just beyond the branch collar and branch bark ridge retains the tree’s natural defense mechanisms and promotes compartmentalization and callus formation. Do not make flush cuts when pruning trees. 

Flush cuts are pruning cuts made as close as possible to the trunk or main branch. They destroy the tree’s natural defense mechanisms that promote wound compartmentalization and callus formation. 

For more information on pruning trees, contact tree pruning Sydney professionals.

I need to have some tree work done. How do I select a qualified arborist?

 Trees are valuable assets to the home landscape. Occasionally the services of a professional arborist are needed to prune a large tree or assess the condition of a tree after a storm. For many individuals, selecting an arborist is a difficult task. 

Several things can be done to increase your odds of finding a qualified arborist rather than just someone with a truck and a chainsaw. Check with friends, relatives, and neighbors and ask if they’ve had positive or negative experiences with any tree service in the last few years. 

Consult the yellow pages in the telephone directory for a listing of arborists under the heading Tree Service. Check the directory advertisements to see if the individual or company belongs to professional organizations, such as the Iowa Arborist Association or the International Society of Arboriculture. 

Professional arborist organizations offer training and certification programs for their members. Membership usually indicates a willingness to remain current in tree maintenance practices. Check with city hall. Some communities require arborists to be licensed. 

Get references from the individual or company. Call the references and, if possible, visit past work sites to ascertain the quality of the work. Doing some background work should dramatically improve your odds of hiring a qualified arborist. 

How To Take Care Of Your Trees and Shrubs?

 Grounds Maintains 80 Acres of Shrub and Tree Plantings

• Shrubs and trees receive annual pruning to control the shape and remove dead and diseased branches.

• Tree canopy maintenance.

• Dead and diseased plantings are replaced with healthy specimens. If you observe any dead or diseased tree in your yard, you should immediately call tree services Sydney professionals. 

• Insect controls are applied on a very limited basis as required to prevent permanent damage.

• Mulching is provided seasonally as needed.