What is Tree Pruning? Why is it Necessary? Can You DIY Pruning or You Better Hire an Arborist?

What is Tree Pruning? Why is it Necessary?

Tree pruning is the process of selectively removing certain parts of a tree, such as branches, stems, or roots, to maintain its health, improve its shape, or ensure safety. It’s a crucial aspect of tree care that helps trees stay strong and vibrant.

What is Tree Pruning?

Tree pruning involves cutting away specific parts of a tree. These parts might include:

• Branches: Removing some branches can help the tree grow better and more evenly.
• Stems: Stems that are dead or diseased are removed to prevent them from affecting the rest of the tree.
• Roots: In some cases, roots may need to be pruned to manage the tree’s growth or to repair damage.

Pruning can be done for various reasons, from aesthetic improvement to ensuring that the tree doesn’t pose a hazard.

Why is Tree Pruning Necessary?

1. Promotes Healthy Growth:
   • Removes Dead or Diseased Parts: Cutting off dead or diseased branches prevents the spread of disease and pests to the rest of the tree, which can also avoid cutting down the tree in the future.
   • Encourages New Growth: Pruning can stimulate the growth of new branches and leaves, which helps the tree grow stronger and more resilient.
2. Improves Tree Structure:
   • Shapes the Tree: Regular pruning helps shape the tree, making it look more attractive and balanced. This can be especially important for ornamental trees and shrubs.
   • Strengthens the Tree: By removing weak or crossing branches, you help the tree develop a strong and stable structure, reducing the risk of breakage during storms.
3. Enhances Safety:
   • Prevents Hazards: Pruning removes branches that could fall and cause damage to property or pose a safety risk to people.
   • Clears Obstacles: Overgrown branches can obstruct walkways, driveways, or power lines. Pruning helps keep these areas clear and safe.
4. Improves Light and Air Circulation:
   • Increases Sunlight Exposure: Removing some branches allows more sunlight to reach the inner parts of the tree, which is crucial for photosynthesis and overall health.
   • Enhances Airflow: Better air circulation helps reduce the likelihood of fungal infections and improves the tree’s overall vitality.
5. Boosts Fruit and Flower Production:
   • Encourages Better Harvests: For fruit trees, pruning can lead to better fruit production by removing old or unproductive branches and allowing more energy to go into producing high-quality fruit.
   • Enhances Flowering: For flowering trees and shrubs, pruning can help improve the size and quantity of blooms.

How is Tree Pruning Done?

Pruning is usually done with specialized tools such as pruning shears, saws, and loppers. The process involves:

• Identifying What to Cut: Look for dead, damaged, or crossing branches and stems that need removal.
• Making Clean Cuts: Use sharp tools to make clean cuts, which help the tree heal faster and reduce the risk of disease.
• Pruning at the Right Time: The best time to prune varies by tree species. Generally, late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, is ideal for many trees.

Can You DIY Pruning or You Better Hire an Arborist?

Pruning your trees yourself can be a rewarding task, but it requires careful consideration of the tree’s health, your skills, and the tools you have available. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide whether to DIY or hire a professional arborist:

DIY Pruning

When to Consider DIY Pruning:

1. Small Trees and Shrubs: If you have small trees or shrubs, DIY pruning is usually manageable. These are easier to handle and require less specialized knowledge.
2. Basic Pruning Needs: If your tree needs only minor maintenance, such as removing a few dead branches or shaping a small shrub, you might handle this on your own.
3. Proper Tools and Knowledge: If you have the right tools (like sharp pruning shears or a pruning saw) and understand the basic principles of pruning, you can successfully manage minor pruning tasks.

Tips for Successful DIY Pruning:

• Learn the Basics: Educate yourself about the correct pruning techniques for the type of tree you’re working with. Avoid cutting too close to the trunk or leaving stubs, as both can harm the tree.
• Use the Right Tools: Invest in high-quality, sharp tools designed for pruning. Dull tools can damage the tree and make the job harder.
• Prune at the Right Time: Different trees have different ideal pruning times. Research when to prune your specific tree species to avoid disrupting its growth cycle.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Use ladders carefully and wear protective gear. Avoid working in bad weather conditions.

Hiring an Arborist

When to Hire a Professional:

1. Large Trees: For large trees, especially those near power lines or structures, it’s safer and more practical to hire a professional. Arborists have the equipment and expertise to handle these safely.
2. Complex Pruning Needs: If your tree has structural issues, diseases, or requires extensive shaping, an arborist’s expertise is invaluable. They can assess the tree’s overall health and make informed decisions about pruning.
3. Lack of Experience: If you’re unsure about how to prune or if you lack experience, hiring an arborist can prevent mistakes that might harm the tree.

Benefits of Hiring an Arborist:

• Expert Knowledge: Arborists have specialized training in tree biology and care. They can identify problems and recommend the best course of action.
• Safety: Professional arborists are trained to work safely at heights and use equipment properly, minimizing the risk of injury or damage.
• Efficiency: Arborists can complete the job quickly and efficiently, using the right techniques and tools for the task.

Choosing a Qualified Arborist:

• Check Credentials: Look for a certified arborist with a good reputation. Certification ensures they have the necessary training and expertise.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several arborists to compare services and costs.
• Ask for References: Speak with past clients to gauge the quality of their work and customer satisfaction.

How Much Does Tree Pruning Cost in Australia?

The cost of tree pruning in Australia can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size and type of tree, the extent of pruning required, the location, and the company you hire. Here’s a general overview to give you an idea of what to expect:

Factors Affecting Cost

1. Tree Size:
   • Small Trees (Up to 5 meters): Pruning small trees typically costs between AUD 150 to AUD 400. These trees are easier to manage and require less equipment and labour.
   • Medium Trees (5 to 10 meters): Pruning medium-sized trees usually costs between AUD 300 to AUD 800. These trees are larger and require more time and effort.
   • Large Trees (Over 10 meters): Pruning large trees can cost between AUD 800 to AUD 2,500 or more. Large trees require specialized equipment and more labour, and their height and size make the job more complex.
2. Tree Type:
   • Ornamental Trees: Pruning ornamental trees may cost more due to the need for precise shaping and care. Prices can vary widely depending on the species and its specific needs.
   • Fruit Trees: Fruit trees often need special attention to maximize fruit production and health. Pruning these can cost between AUD 200 to AUD 600.
3. Extent of Pruning:
   • Light Pruning: Removing a few branches or shaping the tree lightly generally costs less, often around AUD 150 to AUD 400.
   • Heavy Pruning: Extensive pruning, including removing large branches or addressing structural issues, can be more expensive, ranging from AUD 400 to AUD 1,500 or more.
4. Location:
   • Urban Areas: In cities and metropolitan areas, costs may be higher due to increased labour rates and the need for specialized equipment to navigate tight spaces.
   • Rural Areas: In rural locations, prices might be lower, but the availability of arborists and equipment could affect the cost.
5. Accessibility and Complexity:
   • Easy Access: Trees that are easy to reach and work on will generally cost less to prune.
   • Difficult Access: Trees in hard-to-reach locations or near power lines may incur additional charges for safety measures and equipment.

Additional Costs

• Green Waste Removal: Some companies include green waste removal in their prices, while others charge extra. Expect to pay an additional AUD 50 to AUD 150 for green waste removal if it’s not included.
• Emergency Services: If you need pruning services urgently, such as after a storm, emergency rates may apply, potentially increasing the cost.

Getting Accurate Quotes

To get an accurate estimate for tree pruning, it’s best to:

1. Contact an Arborist: Obtain quotes from a professional tree care company like AB Trees to get to know tailored prices for your needs.
2. Provide Details: Give as much information as possible about the tree’s size, type, and the extent of pruning needed when requesting quotes.
3. Check Reviews and Credentials: Ensure that the arborists you contact are qualified and have good reviews to ensure quality service.

Conclusion

Tree pruning costs in Australia can vary based on the size and type of the tree, the extent of work needed, and other factors. Small to medium-sized trees generally cost between AUD 150 and AUD 800 to prune, while large trees can range from AUD 800 to AUD 2,500 or more. For an accurate estimate, it’s best to get a quote from AB Trees, the professional tree care company in the Perth area, and consider the specific details of your pruning needs.