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Signs of Wood Rot in Trees

Posted on by mike

Worried your trees might have wood rot, but can’t be sure? Our experts will talk you through the signs.

Wood rot is a death sentence for most trees. While there are some treatments on the market, for the most part all they really do is delay the inevitable. In this article, we’ll discuss

some of the common signs of wood rot, when they appear and where to go for professional assistance.


Common Indicators of Wood Rot 


While we have talked about tree diseases in other articles, it’s worth further investigation into the signs of one of the most deadly: wood and root rot. Here, we’ll discuss the symptoms in more detail.


Hanging or Dead Branches


If hanging or dead branches are becoming more commonplace around your tree, it may be an indication of wood rot.

Remove these branches as soon as possible and consult an arborist for an accurate diagnosis and (if possible), potential treatment.


Mushrooms 


As a fungi-based disease, mushrooms at the base of your tree – especially if they keep returning – is a clear indication you may have wood rot. If this is the case, you will need to call the experts at Affordable Tree Service for assistance and advice on how to proceed.


Moss or Ferns 


Once you see moss or ferns start to appear on your tree, you probably have damaged roots. As such, seeking professional help from our team is highly recommended.


Yellow Leaves 


Yellow leaves (or those with brown tips) can be a sign of wood rot. But, it is also a common symptom of a number of tree diseases. Consultation with a qualified arborist to get a correct diagnosis is something you will want to look into before jumping in to remove your tree.


Hollow Trunk 


You can test whether your tree is hollow by tapping on it with a rubber mallet. But you also want to be careful not to damage the tree, especially if it’s already sick. Again, this is something we can assist with so when you need help, you should give us a call.


When Do Signs of Wood Rot Appear in Trees (And How to Treat It)? 


Unfortunately, when symptoms of wood rot appear in trees, it’s already too late. By the time you’re able to notice the changes, it has already progressed.

The only thing you can really do is maintain the dying tree by removing branches, and limiting the spread to the sick tree so it doesn’t infect any of your other plants.

Prevention is ultimately the best method of treatment when it comes to wood rot.

By engaging the assistance of professional arborists like those on our team and initiating a strict regime of pruning and maintaining your trees on a regular basis, you can help prevent them becoming sick in the first place.


Where to Go for Assistance 


If you suspect your tree may have fallen victim to wood rot, or you want to organise a professional tree removal service, you can’t go past Affordable Tree Service.

With decades of experience in the industry, our qualified arborists have seen it all, and can assist you with a professional, efficient service each and every time.

Find out more about the range of services we have available, or book an appointment by getting in touch with us today.

Benefits of Tree Pruning

Posted on by mike

If it’s been a while since you’ve pruned your trees or shrubs, this is the place for you.

In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of regular, professional tree pruning in Queensland, from tree health, to hazard prevention and more. We’ll also provide you with information on where to go when you need help from the professionals.


Why Should You Prune Trees? 


There are several reasons why you may benefit from pruning your trees or shrubs on a regular basis. Here, we’ll discuss some of the benefits we and our clients recommend pruning trees on your property.


Prevents Disease & Aids Treatment 


One of the main reasons homeowners like you should regularly have your trees pruned is because it’s a great way to maintain your tree’s health. 

Doing so prevents diseases from taking root in your tree and can even aid in the treatment process if you’re trying to save a sick tree. It can even improve the health of your surrounding foliage. 

 

Promotes Growth 


If your tree has a mass of dead branches or leaves on it, you’re not doing it any favours. 

Our experts say that failing to remove stems or branches that are obviously not healthy can actually cause your tree to become sick, or prevent new growth.


Encourages Fruit Production 


When you have a fruit tree, you want to create the best environment for fruit production. 

You can facilitate this by regularly pruning your trees to maintain their health and ensure bountiful growth.


Stabilise Root System 


Pruning your trees on a regular basis can also help stabilise the root system, which in turn promotes balance and improves the health of your tree (as well as those around it).


Reduces & Removes Hazards 


Large root systems or trees with overhanging branches can often create hazards if they aren’t well maintained. 

By engaging a professional tree pruning and maintenance service such as ours, you improve not only your own safety standards, but that of others around you. 

Improves Drainage


Drainage is so important when growing trees and other plants on your property.
But if you allow your trees to become unruly or overgrown, you run the risk of restricting your drainage channels.
This may cause damage not only to your trees but other areas of your property, which could be costly and time consuming for you as the homeowner.


Improves Access to Fresh Air & Sunlight 


Just as humans benefit from regular access to fresh air and sunlight, so too do trees and other plants. This is why we encourage clients such as yourself to have tree pruning completed.


Where to Go for Professional Assistance 


Even if you’re confident in your abilities, tree pruning can be dangerous. That’s why we always recommend arranging a professional service from our team at Affordable Tree Service.

Our fully qualified experts can complete a thorough inspection and provide advice regarding treatments or maintenance according to your needs.

To book a professional service by our arborists, contact Affordable Tree Service today

How Much Does Tree Pruning Cost?

Posted on by mike

If you’re in the market for a tree pruning service, you’re probably wondering how much it costs.

In this article, our experts will be discussing whether there is an average cost you can expect to pay when hiring a qualified tree pruning company, factors they consider when estimating your quote and where to go for professional advice you can trust.


What’s the Average Price of Tree Pruning in Brisbane? 


Unfortunately, there’s not one specific price you can expect to pay for a tree pruning service to be completed professionally.

Depending on a number of different factors, the cost will vary from a couple of hundred dollars to a couple of thousand dollars.


Factors that Influence Tree Pruning Cost in Brisbane 


There are several factors that influence tree pruning cost in Brisbane. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the most prevalent factors that go into determining the cost of pruning.


Species


The type of tree you have on your property will be one of the main things professionals need to take into consideration.

The number of branches, for instance, on a conifer differs significantly to that of gum trees and other larger species, all of which influences how long the job will take and therefore how much it will cost.


Number of Trees


It goes without saying that the number of trees in need of pruning will influence the cost. Understandably, if you only want to remove one tree it will probably cost you a lot less than if you were to remove several at once.


Tree Health 


Sometimes you want to remove a tree because you’re making changes to the design of your yard; other times you need to do so because the tree is sick and it poses a danger to your landscape (including other flora).

As such, the condition of your tree will influence cost. This is because a sick tree – or one that has been poorly maintained – will often be more difficult to remove than one that has been well looked after.


Safety & Access 

 

At Affordable Tree Service, one of our main priorities is the safety of both our team members and our clients. Therefore, one of our main considerations when evaluating a tree pruning job (and the associated costs) is the safety equipment required for such things.

This includes things such as:

– whether the tree is easy to get to
– whether additional safety measures have to be implemented
– whether we need additional equipment


Weather & Time of Year


The weather, of course, plays a large part in how efficiently and safely a job can be completed. As such, you may find it influences the cost. For example, if work is done on a bright, sunny day with no risk factors, you may pay less than if it’s done in hazardous or stormy conditions.

You may also find that the seasons and time of year will also influence your cost. For instance, work completed in winter may be more affordable than that completed in the height of summer.


Green Waste Removal 


For many arborists, green waste and pruning is a factor that influences the cost customers like you can expect to pay, and an additional service. With Affordable Tree Service, however, it’s included in your tree pruning service so you won’t even know we were there.


Permits 


Some trees – especially those on nature strips or that have been defined as an endangered species – cannot be removed without Council approval.

While our qualified professionals have the licensing associated with removing certain trees, it is something we do need to check with Council if there are specific restrictions and requirements we should adhere to.


Additional or Preparation Services


Sometimes, finishing a job professionally and to a high standard requires additional services like stump grinding, land clearing and arborist reports. This will, of course, increase the price you can expect to pay when arranging your professional tree pruning.


Where to Go for Professional Advice 


When you need professional advice you can trust and services completed by qualified arborists with years of experience and a reliable reputation, you can’t go past Affordable Tree Service.

We’re experts in the industry, with the knowledge and qualifications to get the job done efficiently and safely, every time.

To arrange for your professional tree pruning service or request a quote, get in  touch with our experienced team today.

How Long Do Palm Trees Live?

Posted on by mike

In warm climates like those Queensland experiences, palm trees can be a great option for homeowners looking for a tropical outlook and privacy. But just how long do palm trees live?

In this article, our experts answer all your burning questions including providing information on the average life expectancy of a palm tree, how to tell if one is sick or dying and where to go for removal assistance.


What’s The Average Life Expectancy of a Palm Tree?


A palm tree’s life expectancy depends on the species you choose, and how you maintain it. Some of the most common types of palm trees include:
– golden cane palm
– Australian fan palm
– parlour palm

On average, a palm tree can live for between 60 and 100 years in the right environment. 

Signs a Palm Tree is Sick or Dying 


As magnanimous and impenetrable as a palm tree may seem, it is not adverse to disease. There are a few signs you can look out for if you think your tree might be dying, such as:

Discoloured Leaves 

Discoloured or wilting leaves are a sure sign your tree is lacking the nutrients it needs to live – potassium, manganese and magnesium.

Pests 

Pests are something you can rarely avoid with any tree, even a palm tree. Mites, caterpillars and other bugs especially enjoy these species. You can see evidence of their infestation through the holes they leave.

Brown Trunk or Yellowing Fronds 

A brown trunk or yellowing fronds is another sign your tree is unwell or dying.


It’s important to note that, unlike other trees, a dead palm tree will not fall over as soon as it dies. Often, they remain standing for 12 months or so before the bark dies off and they lose their stability.


Can You Revive a Sick Palm Tree? 


Technically, with the right treatment, a sick or dying palm tree may be returned to full health. Some things you can try are:

– moving the tree from its current location
– providing ample shade
– using fertiliser and other approved methods

Before attempting a treatment on your palm tree, you should consult an expert to ensure it’s the best course of action.


Where to Go for Assistance with Palm Tree Removal 


Sometimes – no matter how hard you try – it’s impossible to save a sick or dying palm tree. If this is the case, and you need to remove a tree safely from your property, it’s best to contact the experts.

At Affordable Tree Service, we have some of the most knowledgeable experts in the industry, with decades of experience and professionalism. We’re prompt, with qualifications and licensing to back up all of our services, ensuring you receive the best work possible every time.

To arrange your palm tree removal services, contact our team today.

What to Consider When Planting or Landscaping in Your Backyard

Posted on by mike

Before you start planting or landscaping in your backyard, there are a few things you need to consider.

As professional arborists and specialists in tree maintenance or removal, we’re often asked about what trees are best to plant when landscaping.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most important considerations you need to make when planning landscaping and planting in your backyard, and when to contact our experts for assistance.

Factors to Consider When Planting or Landscaping

In this section, we’ll be focusing on the factors you need to keep in mind if you want to ensure the plants or trees you choose for your backyard (or front yard) will be right for you.

Space You Have Available

The space you have available will always help determine the types of plants or trees you can choose from. For instance, if you have a smaller backyard that is not conducive to larger, more well established trees (or those with large root systems), you may want to stay away from them.

On the other hand, if space is not a problem, the sky may indeed be the limit in terms of what you have available.

What You Already Have

When choosing trees, shrubs or other plants for your yard, it’s a good idea to think about the species you already have. You want to make sure that whatever you introduce will not interfere or damage your existing flora, but rather enhance the space as a whole.

Your Environment

You need to also think of your environment, and the type of tree you want. For example, if you are looking at a tree that thrives well in full sun, but your backyard is shady and cold, you’ll need to review your choice.

How Big Your Tree Will Grow

One thing that some people forget about is how trees (and their root systems) grow.

You may pick and plant a smaller tree or shrub, but will it stay that way? And what’s it doing underground? You want to make sure it has the space it needs to thrive without interfering with your other plants or trees.

Lifespan & Maintenance

Also consider how long your tree is expected to live, and what you need to do in order for it to have a long life.

If you’re looking for something more maintenance-free, that you can swap in and out as the seasons change, your options will be different than if you’re prepared for something with a much longer lifespan or time commitment.

Additionally when considering the maintenance involved – or if you decide to outsource such things to services like ours – cost is another factor to keep in mind.

Preparing for Planting

In our business, preparation is key and that’s never more true than when you are revamping your landscaping or backyard layout.

If you need to remove existing trees to make way for new additions, or require services such as stump grinding, land clearing or something else entirely, you may need to talk to our team at Affordable Tree Service to assist you in this.

Permission

Do you need permission to plant your chosen trees? Or do you need permission from Council or body corporate authorities to arrange tree removal services? This is definitely something you need to consider before you proceed with landscaping or planting, especially in communal spaces.

Diseases, Pests & Insects

What kinds of diseases will the tree you have in mind fall victim to? Do you know how to treat them? Do insects like bees or butterflies love their flora, or is it something more prone to pest infestation? These are all things you need to factor in when making the right decision for you and your yard.

Pets & Children

If you have pets and children, one of the most important things you need to think of is whether the tree you want will be conducive to that environment.

Not only do you want to make sure your children or pets will be healthy and safe around it, also consider whether it’s durable and will be able to stand up to the wear and tear of their rough and tumble play.

When to Call the Affordable Tree Service Experts

We always believe in asking for help when the task is beyond your capabilities. As such, if you’re uncertain about the types of trees or plants that will suit your backyard – or simply need our services in removing existing trees – contact the qualified team at Affordable Tree Service.

To arrange a tree removal service or inspection from qualified professionals you can trust, contact us today.

Common Tree Diseases in Queensland

Posted on by mike
Tree Stump Removal & Stump Grinding

Common Tree Diseases in Queensland

If a tree gets really sick, you need to do something about it.

In this article, we’ll discuss common tree diseases you need to be aware of when planting trees in Queensland, signs your tree might be sick and what to do about it.

We’ll also talk about when you’re able to diagnose a tree yourself, and when it’s best to consult the experts.

Common Tree Diseases in Queensland

No matter how much you care for your trees, it’s a fact of life that they may eventually fall victim to diseases and become sick.

Here we’ll break down the different types of tree diseases you need to be aware of in Queensland and signs you may have an unhealthy tree on your hands.

Cypress Canker

Cypress canker is a huge problem for conifer trees. It spreads via the wind, water and insects. It is known for thriving in wet conditions where a tree becomes waterlogged.

Myrtle Rust

Myrtle rust is highly infectious and should be treated quickly by a professional. This disease commonly attacks natives like bottlebrush, eucalyptus and tea trees.

It prevents new growth and weakens the immune system. If left to spread throughout your tree or to other trees, it will kill them.

Peacock Spot

Peacock spot is common among olive trees. Left untreated, it will result in stunted growth and poor fruit development.

Root Rot

Root rot is definitely a tree disease you need to be aware of, as initially, it can be difficult to identify. This is because it starts underground and doesn’t make itself known until well advanced.

Citrus Gall Wasp

As indicated by its name, the citrus gall wasp attacks fruit and citrus trees. It presents itself with a small protrusion (or gall) which needs to be removed as quickly as possible.

Pink Disease

Pink disease is another problem prevalent in citrus trees or woody trees, especially those in tropical climates. Look out for fungi with this one.

Signs Your Tree May Be Sick or Infected by Pests

While every disease presents with its own symptoms, there are some signs to look out for if you want to ensure your trees remain healthy. Common indications of a sick tree are:

  • pale and yellowing leaves or branches
  • wilting or chewed leaves
  • peeling or cracked bark
  • absence of lush growth
  • presence of galls (on fruit or citrus trees)
  • fungi
  • yellow spores
  • pests or insects on bark, trunk or leaves
  • black spots
  • white spots
  • ringbarking
  • slow growth or no growth at all
  • brown or grey spots (particularly those with purple or red haloes)

What to Do if You Think a Tree is Sick, Pest Infected or Dying

If you think a tree is sick, pest-infected or dying, we would not recommend trying to diagnose the issue yourself.

Our highly-skilled team of qualified arborists and professionals can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, as well as options for removal.

To arrange for an accurate diagnosis of your sick tree or engage our removal services, get in touch with us today.

Signs of Invasive Tree Roots

Posted on by mike
Tree Stump Removal & Stump Grinding

Signs of Invasive Tree Roots

As professional tree arborists, we often deal with invasive tree roots. But how do you know your tree has invasive roots, what type of trees are known for invasive roots and what do you do when you suspect them.

In this article, we’ll tell you all you need to know about invasive tree roots, including when to contact the team at Affordable Tree Service for assistance.

What are Invasive Roots?

Put simply, invasive tree roots are those that have the potential to damage structures, landscapes, gardens or even plumbing and electrical infrastructure (not to mention the possible injury if you, a family member or neighbour were to trip over them).

Essentially they are roots that have gotten out of hand, come too close to your property, and can be quite costly if left untreated.

Are There Trees Known for Invasive Roots in Australia?

There are, in fact, several species of trees in Australia known for their invasive root systems. Some of the most common are:

  • Camphor Laurel
  • White Poplar
  • Evergreen Figs (Ficus)
  • Evergreen Alder
  • Pride of Bolivia
  • Jacaranda
  • Gum (Eucalyptus)
  • Liquidambar
  • Palms
  • Silver Maple
  • outhern Magnolia
  • Willow

While we’re not saying you should not or cannot plant these trees on your property, you do need to be aware of the issues they may cause if left uncared for.

What Happens if You Have Invasive Roots?

Invasive roots can be a major problem for homeowners, particularly if they start to cause damage to your property. The most well-known issues you are likely to encounter with invasive roots are when they:

  • become a trip or fall hazard
  • encroach on your neighbour’s property or into public walkways
  • infiltrate the plumbing and electricity infrastructure
  • damage retaining walls
  • cause paths and driveways to buckle or crack
  • destabilise your foundations

Signs of Invasive Roots

Though invasive roots can cause big problems, there are certain warning signs to look out for, especially if any of the trees mentioned in this article are on your property. They are:

  • clogged drains or unexplained bad drainage
  • changes in water pressure
  • cracked tile or concrete
  • buckling floor or tile
  • foundational cracks (especially walls)
  • uneven flooring
  • cracked or shattered windows

Prevention is the Best Cure – When to Contact Us

When it comes to treating invasive tree roots, the best method of treating the issue is not to have these trees on your property. However, sometimes that is not possible, and that’s OK.

If you have a problem tree on your property that is causing damage – or has the potential to do so – the best cause of action is to contact us to either remove the tree or assist with other treatment methods.

To find out whether you’re at risk of invasive tree roots on your property, or to arrange for problem tree removal by a qualified arborist, contact Affordable Tree Service.

Cost of Stump Removal

Posted on by mike
Tree Stump Removal & Stump Grinding

Cost of Stump Removal

When it comes to tree or stump removal, cost is often a major consideration for many homeowners.

In this article, we’ll discuss what you can expect to pay when organising professional stump removal services on your property, the factors that influence this and when to contact the experts at Affordable Tree Service for assistance.

What’s the Average Cost of Tree or Stump Removal?

Unfortunately, there’s no one price you can expect to pay when organising professional tree or stump removal services. Some tree removal will cost a couple of hundred dollars while others are much more expensive.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Professional Stump Removal Services?

There are several factors you need to consider when organising professional stump removal services, all of which may influence the cost you can expect to pay.

In this section, we’ll break down some of the most common considerations and how they affect the potential cost of your service.

Permits

Often if you want to remove a particular tree or stump in Brisbane or Queensland properties, you need to consult council for permission.

While your tree removal professional can help you in terms of providing direction, and often already have the right licensing needed to remove stumps, additional licensing or restrictions may increase your quote.

Type of Tree or Stump and Service Required

The type of tree stump you need to have removed will greatly influence the type of stump removal.

For instance, softer trees like palms are potentially a lot easier to remove than other trees, so you may not need specialist equipment. In this case, the cost may be a lot cheaper than other tree types and will often help determine the type of service you require from your experienced tree removal specialist.

Root Systems

Root systems sometimes come down to the type of tree, however this is worth its own point of consideration when helping to determine the cost of your service.

Understandably, the deeper and more ingrained the root system, the more difficult it may be to remove the stump. This may influence the amount of labour (and potential equipment) required, which in turn will determine the price.

Number of Trees

The more trees you have to remove, the more expensive your stump removal services will be. That’s why you need to specify this when requesting a quote from your professional stump removal service.

Condition

Often, the condition of a tree or stump will be taken into account and will help determine stump removal cost.

For instance, if a tree is dead but still in relatively good condition, it is likely that the cost will be much less than one that is incredibly sick or in terrible condition.

Clean Up

At Affordable Tree Service, we try to keep our work areas as clean as possible and leave your property in the same condition as we found it. However, this is something we (and others like us) need to consider when providing you with an accurate estimate.

Accessibility

Accessibility plays a large part in determining cost, just in the same way as the type of service you require and the type of tree you have will.

For instance, if access to the stump in question is tricky, and we need specialist equipment to access the area, this will need to be factored into any costs we provide you with when quoting on services.

When to Contact Affordable Tree Service

At Affordable Tree Service, we pride ourselves on providing quality service for stump removal that doesn’t cost you the earth. For a professional, reliable service you can trust, contact our team today.

To arrange an obligation free quote for your stump removal cost, get in touch with our experts at Affordable Tree Service.

Why Choose a Professional Arborist

Posted on by mike
This is Wayne from Affordable Tree Service Brisbane

Why Choose a Professional Arborist

So you need to remove some trees from your backyard and are considering doing it yourself. Before you do, read this article.

In the warmer months, it is tempting to try your hand at tree removal and maintenance, but the truth is, it’s not always the best approach.

In this article, we’ll tell you why you should leave tree removal to a professional arborist, and the benefits of doing so.

The Benefits of Choosing a Professional Arborist

There are any number of reasons why you would choose to hire a professional arborist for tree maintenance and removal over attempting it yourself. Here, we’ll discuss some of the most common factors.

Licensing & Permits

If you attempt to remove a tree without the appropriate licensing and permits to do so, you may find yourself in hot water with local authorities.

On the other hand, if you hire a professional arborist or tree removal professional (such as those we have on our team at Affordable Tree Service) you don’t have to worry so much about all those nitty-gritty details.

Qualifications

A trained arborist has all the skills and qualifications needed to safely and efficiently remove a tree from your property, and provide advice or solutions on tree maintenance.

This is something that not all home owners – even those who consider themselves au fait with DIY and skilled in the garden – have. A good arborist will know all there is to know about your tree, and the safest and best solution for its removal because we’re trained to recognise these things.

That’s simply knowledge, skills and qualifications you don’t have, which is why it’s best to rely on those with experience.

Safety & Other Regulations

Most homeowners aren’t familiar with the safety restrictions and other regulations involved with the removal of trees. And it can be a dangerous business, with many residents getting themselves into trouble when attempting a job that is out of their league.

That’s why it’s considered good practice to call in the experts when you need to remove a tree from your property.

Trained arborists like us are across every aspect of safety restrictions and regulations so you can be certain your job will be completed in accordance with all local laws and regulations. This is especially the case where safety is concerned.

Diagnosis & Prognosis

This benefit comes back to that same idea that you don’t know what you don’t know. While you may think you know what’s wrong with the tree you’re attempting to remove, that may not always be the case.

When you hire a qualified professional, you get an accurate diagnosis of the issue and a plan for removing your tree, if that’s even what you need to do.

No doubt there are countless instances out there of residents removing a sick tree when they didn’t really need to, and options for treatment instead of removal.

We can also advise you if it’s considered to be an appropriate time to remove the tree under consideration, or whether another season would be preferable for the health of your remaining trees and plants.

Equipment

Tree removal is not a simple process, and often requires equipment most untrained residents do not have easy access to. By hiring a professional like us, you don’t have to worry about what equipment is required to get the job done.

We come on site ready to go, with all the equipment we need so you don’t have that hassle.

Less Damage & No Clean Up

For all your efforts, you may end up inadvertently damaging the rest of your back yard if you approach the task unprepared or without the assistance of a trained professional.

Our trained professionals complete every tree removal with as little damage to surrounding fauna as possible.

We even take all our waste with us, and give you the opportunity to keep clippings for mulch if that is something you’d like to do.

Time & Money

Over the years at Affordable Tree Service, we’ve seen many residents waste valuable time and money by not hiring a professional for tree removal and maintenance. You may think it’s a wasted expense, but in our experience, the opposite is actually true.

Removing a tree yourself – particularly if this is your first time, or you’re not overly familiar with the task – often ends up costing you a lot of money and time you could have spent elsewhere.

Hiring a professional means that the job will get done efficiently, at the price quoted to you when you first approached them. There’s no risk or surprises involved.

When to Call Affordable Tree Service

If you’ve read this article up to this point then it almost goes without saying. If you’re in the market for a tree removal service complete with trained professionals who know what they’re doing, you need to call the Affordable Tree Service team.

Discover more about why choosing a professional arborist from Affordable Tree Service is the way to go. Contact us today for an obligation-free quote.

Pruning Mistakes to Avoid

Posted on by mike
Tree Pruning Is More Than Just A Simple Cutting Exercise

Pruning Mistakes to Avoid

Spring is the time to get out in the backyard, but are you pruning your trees correctly?

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common mistakes DIY gardeners make when pruning their trees, what they should be doing instead, and when to get in touch with the experts at Affordable Tree Service.

Common Pruning Mistakes to Avoid

As the months warm up, we know how tempting it can be to get out in the yard and tidy up those plants or trees that have remained dormant through winter. But before you start the rejuvenation process that is pruning and maintenance, you need to make sure you’re approaching it correctly.

In this section, we’ll discuss some of the most common mistakes clients make, and how to avoid them.

Bad Timing

Timing is everything when you’re talking about maintaining your property, and it’s no less true when it comes to pruning. While you may think Spring is the best time to get those overgrown trees under control, that’s not the case.

If you’ve reached Spring and have yet to do your pruning, you’re actually too late for many trees, most of which thrive when pruned in winter.

That’s why you should always consult with your local nursery or tree maintenance professional at Affordable Tree Service before attempting your pruning.

Bad Technique

Don’t just hack at your trees when pruning them – be delicate and take controlled measures. The three-cut method is often thought to be the most effective and safe when pruning trees.

Wrong Tools

If you want to do your pruning right, you need the right tools. Too many of our customers attempt pruning using the wrong equipment for the job. This results in potential damage to both the tree you are trying to maintain, as well as the trees around it.

Too Much Pruning

It may sound silly, but it is, in fact, possible to over-prune a tree. We’ve seen many trees become sick or die as a result of over-pruning.

And believe us, we understand. The sun comes out one day in winter, or you get a new tree you really love so you become overzealous in its maintenance. But unfortunately, what you may consider to be a little extra TLC could actually harm your tree.

Signs you have unintentionally overpruned a tree include:

  • Slow to grow or flower
  • No growth or flowering
  • Broken or dead branches
  • Too many cuts (wounds) from where it’s constantly been pruned
  • If 25% of the tree has been pruned during usual flowering seasons

It’s important to remember that a new tree usually will not need pruning in its first year of planting. If you’re doing this, you may be doing more harm than good.

Not Recognising Your Limitations

Possibly one of the biggest mistakes we see DIY gardeners make – if not the biggest mistake – is not recognising your limitations.

Too often aficionados like yourself will attempt a tree pruning task that is beyond their capabilities, when the safest and easiest thing to do is call the professionals.

Too many people think they’ll save a few bucks by attempting to prune at heights beyond their reach or with ladders. This is when accidents happen, and it all could have been avoided if you’d just asked for assistance.

When to Call Affordable Tree Service for Help

At Affordable Tree Service, we believe there is no shame in asking for help, and we’re always here to provide it. If you have recognised that your tree pruning job is just too big for you to manage, or you need advice on how to maintain your trees properly, give us a call.

Our staff members live and breathe tree pruning and maintenance solutions that will have your backyard back to brand new in no time. We’re also fully qualified, licenced and insured so you can be certain your tree pruning work will be completed as efficiently and safely as possible, every time.

For assistance in how not to make tree pruning mistakes, or to book an obligation-free consultation, contact our experts today.