Nearly all types of trees, of any size and age, will need pruning at some point in their lives to help them fit into their surrounding environment.
Many tree species, if left alone, could likely establish branches much lower to the ground.
Lower limbs are often removed to allow for access underneath the tree’s canopy, to establish or improve views, or for visual appeal.
The removal of lower limbs (responsibly) on most trees shouldn’t have a negative impact over the life of the tree.
How much to remove
There are several factors to consider when deciding the amount of pruning to be done:
The most important factors to consider are the species, size, age, condition, and placement of the tree to be pruned. Many species of trees commonly branch relatively low to the ground (Japanese Maple, Dogwood and Magnolias).
Removing too much from these trees can greatly impact their appearance. The current and mature height of the tree should also be taken into consideration. A 100-foot oak tree’s first ten feet of branches generally won’t be as important or have as big of an impact when it is removed, as the first 10 feet of branches on a 12- foot tall crabapple.
The clearance required above should also be a factor when determining the scope of pruning to be done. The amount of overhead space needed to mow under the canopy of a tree is much lower than the amount of space required for a UPS truck to pass comfortably down the street. The removal of too many lower limbs can greatly impact a tree’s health.
Pruning for the grass
Many times, the removal of lower tree limbs is looked at as the solution for under-performing grass below a tree’s canopy. While the lack of light created from lower limbs may play a factor in the issue, many times pruning will only be a temporary, or even ineffective, solution.
The removal of lower limbs can allow an increased amount of sunlight to reach lawns through increased available angles to the sun. Depending on the species of tree, the selective reduction of limbs in length to allow more light to reach the turf can be employed as well.
Continued maintenance
Both of these options will require continuing maintenance as trees grow. Another possible cause of under-performing grass can be competition between the roots of the lawn and tree for the same resources in the soil. Most species of plant roots search the soil for the same things, and in some settings, tree roots essentially win the battle, leading to poor performing grass. Consider creating a mulch ring below the tree instead of fighting to keep turf established.
Know your limits
Pruning to raise a tree’s canopy can be more challenging, and may require a bit more expertise than many homeowners are comfortable with. Using a qualified arborist for larger/higher up projects is generally the safe and responsible way to go.
Pruning smaller trees and shrubs, however, is something most homeowners can undertake. When you begin a large- pruning project, inquire about how to prune smaller plants on your property.
Good arborists should be just as knowledgeable about a giant poplar removal as he/she is about the small ornamental plum next to the sidewalk.
