Unlike trees in the forest or field, urban trees require pruning for safety and aesthetics.

There are many types of pruning practices. RTEC will only perform pruning practices approved standards developed for the tree care industry.

Pruning generally is needed every two to five years, depending on the species and condition of a tree's health and safety.

Trees will naturally shed lower-producing deadwood or branches.  However, when they do they can rip or tear and potentially damage any structures that are beneath them. Deadwood often come down during heavy winds and storms which could lead to damage to surrounding structures.

A properly pruned tree's result should look "natural".

ANSI A300 Pruning Practices

Pruning should be performed per the ANSI A300 standards to ensure that your tree maintain its health.

Maintenance pruning is the process in which dead, dying, diseased, crossing branches are removed, depending on the species and health.

Hazard reduction pruning is the process in which larger deadwood is removed for safety.

Vista pruning is performed when there is a view that the tree branches are blocking, this can be performed by selectively removing limbs without injuring the tree.

Crown raising is the process in which the lower branches are removed, most commonly in areas where there is a driveway, walk-way, or parking area.

Crown reduction is pruning less than 1/3 of the tree's crowns or for the purpose of shaping.

Crown Thinning is selectively removing inner branches to increase light penetration, air movement and reduce branch weight.

Pruning cut back branches from structures such as sidewalks, lights, and building.

Fine pruning is most commonly performed on smaller trees that have smaller pieces of deadwood.

Pruning cuts should not have dressing or paint to cover the cuts, this was a misconception that is still in practice today.

Proper PPE should be worn at all times during the pruning process.

Bad Pruning Hurts Trees

Improper pruning or removing large branches can be a major shock to  tree.  Often, that branch will not grow back. Following over-pruning, often sucker growth will sprout as a stress response.

Topping or reducing more than 1/3 of a tree's crown or severe reduction is one of the main causes of tree death and decline. This practice is against ANSI standards and should be avoided.

These trees topped by an inexperienced contractor died two years later and all  had to be removed.

You Might be Paying to Have Your Tree Damaged

Many homeowners may not be aware of unethical practices. For example, spiking of live trees. It is harmful to trees and against pruning practices and standards.

Trees that are pruned should be climbed using ropes.  Spiking will increase your tree's chances for infection, the tree will not be able to heal properly and cause the tree to decline.