Many people know their trees need to be pruned, but few know when they actually need it. Pruning trees is done primarily to preserve the tree’s overall health as well as enhance the aesthetics. Today, we at Milam’s Tree Service would like to share some common signs that your trees may display that indicate they need to be pruned.

Signs of When to Prune Trees

Broken Branches: A sure sign that damage has occurred is seeing any broken or limp tree branch that exposes the inside of your tree. This damage is typically caused by extreme wind or heavy snow and if not treated promptly, can be very hazardous. Be sure to always inspect your trees following a storm to see if any trees require any immediate pruning, or even removal for safety.
Branch Density: If the branches are so thick you can’t see through it, it needs to be trimmed back. Density can also be a hazard during heavy winds and cause damage as the branches are more likely to get tangled in the intense wind.
Crossing Branches: The bark will rub against the crossing branches, causing damage. As the interior of the branch is exposed, it becomes vulnerable to pests and diseases as well as leads to decay which will eventually spread to the rest of the tree.
Deadwood: Excessive dead implies the tree is dying. Broken branches and large sections of deadwood is another hazardous condition that should have immediate attention. Pruning is essential before the decay spreads to the majority of the tree and the whole tree will have to be removed.
Deep or Multiple Cracks: Two or more cracks in the tree’s bark or especially deep cracks suggest a severe problem with the tree, ignoring the problem will only deteriorate the tree, causing it to be completely removed. Pruning the branches with the cracks can save the tree.
Misshaped Trees: Trees require regular pruning or they don’t grow in optimal patterns suited for their structure. Breakage and property damage can be the result of misshapen trees that do not have their weight evenly distributed.
Tree Cankers: When the tree’s bark is completely missing or even just sunken in, it is known as tree cankers. It is a red flag the tree is decaying or has a disease that will cause the tree to completely rot away. Pruning away the limbs where the tree cankers are manifesting can preserve the tree.
Uninhibited Tree Growth: Trees naturally grow upward towards the sun. When trees are planted in the landscaping however, they have few trees to compete with and lots of open space. These conditions give the tree opportunity to grow outward as opposed to upward. Unfortunately this causes the branches to become heavy and more likely to collapse under their own weight. Pruning will make the less of a hazard.
Wandering Branches: Any branches that have grown over the roof or have become tangled within themselves or around power poles or other structures have a high potential to cause property damage and should be pruned.

Tree Trimming, Pruning & More in McDonough, Jackson, Jonesboro, Fayetteville, Hampton, Sunny Side GA | Fayette, Clayton & Henry Counties, Georgia

To ensure the safety of you and others as well as prevent damage to your home and property as well as make certain the trees are properly pruned, it is essential to allow professionals to prune your trees. Every tree species require specific pruning techniques and the experts of Milam’s Tree Service are readily available to get the job done right for you. Contact us today!