Tree Care: An Introductory Guide
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Tree Care: An Introductory Guide

Palm trees are one of the most decorative and unique trees that you'll find in the warmer, more tropical climates. When properly cared for, these trees can be beautiful and full of foliage. However, knowing how to care for them isn't always easy. That's probably why you're here. If it is, then you're in the right place. This site is dedicated to the care and maintenance of all sorts of trees, including tropical varieties like palm trees. The information on this page can help you to understand which of the basic care steps you can do yourself and which steps are best done by a local tree service.

Tree Care: An Introductory Guide

Trimming Backyard Apple Trees: How, When, And Why

Same Peterson

Apple trees are some of the most lovely trees you can have in your own backyard. Every fall, they bless you with fruit. Every spring, they present you with the beauty of fluffy flowers. But in order for them to keep producing fruit and flowers, apple trees do require care, including trimming. Take a look at the when, how, and why of apple tree trimming.

Why is trimming so important for apple trees?

There are a few reasons to trim your apple trees. First, trimming removes old, dying branches that would not produce apples but would take vital nutrients from the rest of the tree. Second, trimming removes branches that are showing signs of fungal infection so that the infection does not spread and damage the fruit or flowers. Third, trimming helps keep your apple tree in a desirable shape, which makes it easier to pick those apples — and also makes the sight of the spring flowers even more beautiful.

When should you trim apple trees?

The best time of year to trim apple trees is in the very early spring or late winter. You must trim before buds appear on the tree, or else you'll be doing more harm than good. In most temperate climates where apples grow, late February and early March tend to be the right time. You can do some trimming here and there throughout the season, but only when it's absolutely needed, such as if the branch shows sign of infection or is about to break off on its own. (It's better to cut off a branch and create a clean wound than to let it fall itself and develop a jagged wound.)

How should you trim apple trees?

Always sanitize your shears before you start trimming the tree. Your cuts should all be about an inch from where the branch meets the trunk. You want to remove the whole branch except for a little nub.

Your goal should be to remove no more than 1/3 of the tree's growth. Start by removing old, dead branches and any that show signs of disease, such as cankers or fuzzy spots. Then, remove branches that cross over other branches, or those that seem to be getting in the way and making the tree too dense. Clean up the branches when you're done. You don't want fungi to breed in the dead branches and infect the apple tree in the spring.

For more information about tree trimming, reach out to a local trimming service.


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