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Tips
for Caring
for Young Trees
Generally, many arborists believe that it is not
necessary to trim a newly planted tree for at least the
first three to five years, but should take place
gradually over a period of several years. We like to
evaluate on a case by case basis given the
uncontrollable factors of wind, rain and sometimes light
within the first year after planting. Waiting to trim
gives time for the root system to grow faster and
stronger. After this, trimming should be done only as
necessary to enhance the natural shape and structural
strength of the tree.
As the tree’s roots develop and are growing beyond the
natural contour, it may be time to prune the tree. Even
though one can see that some of the lower branches are
too low or are out of balance, relative to the crown,
trunk development is paramount. Lower branches are left
on the trunk of the tree to make food and to shade the
lower bark which is often thin. If any small dead
branches are eliminated, tree health is bolstered.
With young trees, it is recommended to promote by
pruning a single dominant leader. Pruning the back of
this leader should not be done, nor should the secondary
branches outgrow the leader. Sometimes a tree will
develop double leaders known as co-dominant stems. It is
best to have one of these leaders removed while the tree
is young, because such competition can lead to
structural weaknesses.
Different trees have different growth patterns and
understanding your tree’s growth pattern can better
benefit your tree’s life in the long term.
The lowest section of the tree, sometimes referred to as
the skirt line is the part of the tree that catches the
eye first and can be a crucial part of the overall
shape. Primary skirt line can be eliminated and lifted
to a secondary level, if this second tier is complete.
If the branches are too low and you can’t mow around
them without obstruction or the roof touched by the
lowest section, then it may be time for the skirt to be
raised. We prefer to create a low skirt line by
cultivating and pruning these branches by trimming the
small branches pointing downward to the healthy branches
pointing upward, leaving out the chopped or stubbed look
that is counterproductive and not healthy for the tree.
Although a person is confident to tackle a seemingly
small job, it is best to consult a professional arborist
for a young tree’s first trim, which is usually after
the first year and sometimes not for the first three to
five years.
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