When Should You Remove a Branch From a Tree?

While you might think that you can leave trees in your garden to take care of themselves, there are times when you need to intervene. For example, you might need to bring in a tree lopping service to remove branches in certain scenarios. When might you need to do this?

You Have a Broken Branch

Tree branches most often break because of storm or wind damage. If a tree is buffeted in bad weather, then its branches might move so much out of position that one or more of them cracks and breaks under stress.

Sometimes, a branch might break for non-weather related reasons. For example, a weaker branch might break if something knocks against it or if someone climbs the tree and puts too much weight on it.

You should try to remove broken branches as soon as you can. A branch with a crack or break might hang in position for a while; however, it is ultimately likely to snap and fall. Even a small branch can cause some damage to anything, or anyone, it falls on.

You Have Overlapping Branches

A healthy tree's branches usually grow out straight. They typically have space between and around them. They don't tend to touch each other or overlap as they grow.

If you have a couple of larger branches that cross over each other, then it's worth removing one of them. Overlapping branches might mean that your tree isn't in such good shape. It's not growing the way it should.

Branches that touch each other are also more likely to pass on decay, fungus and pest problems. Ultimately, these problems could affect the whole tree and not just a couple of its branches.

So, if you remove crossed branches, then you also relieve stress on the tree. It can focus its efforts on maintaining and growing its core strength.

Plus, you also reduce the risk of cross-contamination later if your tree does develop a problem with decay, a fungus or a pest infestation. If you try to keep branches apart, then you might be able to confine potential damage to one branch. Your tree is more likely to stay healthy and last for longer even if you have to prune off branches every now and then.

If you're worried that you might have a problem with tree branches, then contact local tree loppers. They can take a look at your tree, evaluate the problem and remove branches safely if this is the best solution. Look into tree loppers near you.


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