Menu

Call This Saturday to Get $25 OFF

banner

5 Bad Pruning Examples to Avoid

Trees require regular care for healthy growth and longevity. One vital care practice is pruning, which entails removing…

Jul 07,2024

5 Bad Pruning Examples to Avoid

Trees require regular care for healthy growth and longevity. One vital care practice is pruning, which entails removing overgrown, damaged, or dead limbs. While tree pruning may seem straightforward, minor mistakes can compromise overall health, leading to deterioration and premature tree removal. At the Sesmas Tree Service, we leverage extensive pruning knowledge to ensure the right technique and tools for your trees. Even if you have conducted successful landscaped projects previously, tree trimming and pruning should be handled by certified arborists. Here are common pruning errors to avoid and how to avoid them.

image

Taking a Little Off the Top

DIY enthusiasts often trim the canopy to reduce the height or proximity to utility lines and structures. While topping may seem harmless initially, it causes more harm with time. You risk suckers that are structurally weak and susceptible to damage, compromising the tree’s overall well-being. If you have to reduce the height of a tree, hire professional arborists to ensure minimum damage and quality results.

Our Services

image Your Trusted Local Arborists

Land Clearing Services

Not every tree removal business can handle large-scale site clearing and site preparation projects like Sesmas Tree Service can. We…

Learn More
image Your Trusted Local Arborists

Retention Pond & Stormwater Maintenance

Property management companies and HOA’s in Georgia are required to maintain their retention ponds to make sure their stormwaters on their properties…

Learn More
image Your Trusted Local Arborists
image Your Trusted Local Arborists

Commercial Office/Industrial

At Sesmas Tree Service, we understand that the main priorities at your commercial office and industrial sites are to keep…

Learn More

Pruning Bigger Branches

Pruning leaves injuries on the tree, which can get infected or infested if they are big and slow to heal. Tree service professionals recommend trimming branches between two to three inches in diameter or smaller if necessary. If you prune branches that are four inches in diameter or larger, it increases the risk of decay, fungus, and diseases. Even if the damage is not apparent initially, delaying professional intervention can lead to deterioration and tree removal.

Cutting Too Close to the Trunk

The area that connects the branch to the trunk is called the collar. DIYers often trim too close to the trunk and end up cutting the collar. This leaves an open wound that increases susceptibility to decay and other health complications. Tree service professionals recommend pruning further from the collar to allow the tissue to heal quickly. In addition, different species require certain pruning techniques to achieve the desired results without damaging the tree. You can consult a tree care company for a more hands-off approach, ensuring everything is handled professionally.

Bark Damage

Pruning projects are not limited to small branches but big ones as well. If you want to trim a huge tree in your yard, there’s always the risk of damaging the bark. Cutting large branches can reap the bark as they fall, injuring the tree. Certified arborists recommend the three-step pruning technique to minimize bark damage. This process entails making two initial pruning cuts and reducing the weight of the branch as it comes down. Once this is done, you can proceed to make the pruning cut.

Over pruning

Pruning both large and small branches without purpose or proper technique can cause issues with sucker growth, structural issues, and safety hazards. When pruning live wood, limit the cuts between 5% to 20% of the foliage, especially for unhealthy or slow-growing trees. A tree care company in Milton, GA has the tools and expertise to ensure proper pruning techniques for a healthy and aesthetically pleasing landscape.

Customer Reviews

Noel and his team at Sesmas Tree Service are extremely professional, do quality work, and are available when you need them. I have been using them for the past year and have never been disappointed with any service they have provided. Noel is the first person I call when I need any tree work done!

Matthew Keheley

I absolutely love the work ethic displayed by Sesmas employees. They work hard and fast! My property looks amazing! This is the second time in 5 years that I have used their services and customer satisfaction is still at the top of their list.

Evita Fikes

Sesmas did a terrific job for us on a project completed today involving the removal of 18 problem trees. Project was completed exactly as promised, skillfully and for a reasonable price. Mike Fowler was excellent in overseeing the work and his crew was outstanding. Highly recommend!

Kathryn Arvidson

These guys were on point. Verified the request before beginning (always good, because the trees aren't coming back!). Then made sure the trimming was done to exactly where I wanted it. On time, fast, and completely cleaned up after - was a great experience. Highly recommend!

Josh Pitchford

DIY enthusiasts can conduct safe and efficient pruning projects by avoiding these mistakes. If you prefer a more professional approach, contact us at the Sesmas Tree Service and schedule a consultation. We provide comprehensive services, from planting and maintenance to tree and stump removal, at competitive rates.

Blogs & Latest News

Stay updated with the latest tips, trends, and insights from Sesmas. Explore expert advice on tree care, safety, and maintenance to keep your landscape healthy and beautiful year-round.

View All
Dec 23,2025

When a Tree Stops Being an Asset and Becomes a Risk

Trees are magnificent entities that add beauty and functionality to your home. However, they can pose serious risks if left unattended.…

Read More
Dec 17,2025

Why Trees Are the Unsung Heroes of Your Neighborhood

Trees are magnificent entities that improve our landscapes and the environment. Whether it’s their profound beauty during spring or the shield…

Read More
Dec 09,2025

Why Tree Care Is Essential for Home Value and Curb Appeal

Taking care of trees on your property regularly is one of the smartest investments you can make to protect long-term value…

Read More
Dec 04,2025

The Step-by-Step Process of Professional Stump Grinding

After cutting down a potentially hazardous tree on your property, the job is not complete until you get rid of the…

Read More