INTERIOR TRIMMING

EMPHASIZING THE ARCHITECTURE OF THE CENTRAL STEM OR STEMS

Generally, a large tree growing near a structure in an urban environment will require a little crown reduction, one or two lower limbs and some deadwood removed, removal of watersprouts and some interior trimming to bring out the form of the tree to its advantage. Every situation is different so call Albert's TreeCluB for a free consultation.

Following are a few of the different types of trimming practiced worldwide, that are offered by Albert's TreeCluB. Please contact us for a free quote on trimming work in the Austin area.

CROWN RAISE

This is the easiest way to trim a tree.   The goal of this type of pruning is to increase the distance between the ground and the lowest branches of the tree. This is a good way to let light into a yard in certain situations, improve clearance at sidewalks or allow trucks to pass at the road under a tree, etc.

CROWN REDUCTION

Crown reduction is a unique type of trimming recommended for trees with uneven canopies, especially where there are structures beneath the tree. Crown reduction is the thinning of the ends of various limbs or central stems for the purpose of lightening a certain part of a tree or the entire canopy. It lowers the risk trees falling over in storms and limbs breaking in high winds or high load conditions.

Crown reduction is not the same as “topping” a tree. Topping a tree means cutting off the top at a certain level. The tree can look unsightly and butchered because the main stem or stems terminate suddenly where the cut is made. More importantly the large cuts associated with topping may allow diseases and insects to quickly enter the tree and cause decay.

In contrast, crown reduction involves cuts spread out throughout the crown so major stems are not cut off. Instead small parts of branches are cut where the branch divides, leaving the tree to close off decay-causing organisms and heal strongly. The branches that are removed are generally the farthest ones out. This is because the weight of these branches has the greatest amount of leverage on the branch and in turn, on the whole tree. In this way, weight is removed so as to allow the tree to heal, remain attractive, and keep relatively compact so that it does not become too top-heavy or lose large branches.

Crown reduction is a perfect solution for those who wish to keep trees that are especially close to their house or business and do not feel that “trimming up” will suffice to ensure the trees’ health and safety. Crown reduction focuses on encouraging growth lower in the canopy, thus keeping the center of gravity low over the long-term. Crown reduction differs from the standard “limbing up” style of trimming in that the lower branches are retained as weight is removed above. However, keep in mind that limbs should not be allowed to touch a structure. They should be kept a few feet from roofs and gutters to allow for proper airflow and prevent mold, mildew and to keep unwanted pests from using the tree as
a ladder to access your roof.

Crown reductions are a desirable form of tree maintenance especially here in the Southwest where storms can bring very high winds. Most people are aware that dead trees are risky to have near a home, as they are likely to blow down in a storm. But what is less obvious is the danger that a healthy tree with a very full canopy may uproot, especially in an urban environment where root systems may have been invaded or restricted. In this scenario, a tree will have a large “sail” area for the winds to catch and not enough anchorage in the ground.

On this note, it is easy to be deceived by a healthy canopy into thinking that the roots are very strong. They may be more than sufficient to collect needed nutrients for the tree, but may lack structural strength. Remember, our trees evolved to be in forest conditions, where they were shielded from the wind by neighboring tress. Trees, even if they look sturdy, are not necessarily prepared to stand alone in a manicured lawn.