Tree Trimming vs. Tree Pruning — What’s the Difference?
If you’re a homeowner who cares for their yard, chances are you’ve considered tree trimming and tree pruning before. Both are excellent services within the landscape industry. The differences are subtle, though. Pruning is used to remove unnecessary branches. Trimming, on the other hand, promotes healthy growth. Both services are performed at separate times of the year, using vastly different pieces of equipment, to provide a better aesthetic and healthier landscape. Understanding the difference, though, is crucial.
Tree Trimming
Tree trimming helps trees, shrubs, and hedges growth in a healthy manner. Often, commercial clients trim trees to make their property more attractive to prospective clients. A better appearance typically means more visitors.
Professionals generally focus on removing green shoots, which helps encourage healthier growth overall. On top of growth, trimming also improves the appearance of the tree itself.
Tree Pruning
Pruning is not just limited to tree maintenance. The term is often associated with the removal of unnecessary branches and sometimes even roots. These branches and roots may be dead and need to be cut away from the tree.
In some cases, branches grow in the wrong direction. They push towards electrical utility wires or structures. Pruning helps keep unwanted growth in check.
Equipment Used
When it comes to pruning, shears are often the choice tool – hand shears or lopping shears. These shears are typically strong enough to cut through thin branches. For thick branches, a saw may be required.
For trimming, shears, trimmers, and saws are utilized to provide efficient results and healthier growth overall.
Pruning vs. Trimming
There are a lot of people who believe that tree pruning and tree trimming are the same things. They are similar, but there are some notable differences to keep in mind. It can be helpful to take a look at a table that goes through the differences between tree pruning and tree trimming. Some of the most important points to keep in mind include:
| Tree Pruning | Tree Trimming |
| Tree pruning is typically used to remove unnecessary branches. | The goal of tree trimming is to promote healthy growth of your branches and leaves. |
| Tree pruning is typically done using shears, such as hand shears or topping shears. | In addition to shears, saws and trimmers are often used during the tree trimming process. |
| Tree pruning is typically done once per year. Dormant trees are typically pruned during the winter to ensure they grow well during the spring. | Tree trimming usually takes place twice per year. One appointment usually takes place just after the flowers begin to bloom. |
It is important for you to reach out to a professional who has experience with tree pruning and tree trimming. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, reach out to us today.
Contact Us
If your home or business could use tree trimming or pruning service, contact Blooms Landcare by calling (817) 688-5352. We’ll determine whether trimming or pruning is required, and provide professional results that last and make a difference.