Menu

Our Reviews
Hugh Reinhardt
google

Great job they removed a big tree stump on our property with no problem and at a better price than the others guys wanted to charge us. Driscoll Tree Service team was on time and had the right equipment and got right to work.

Gretta Michaels
google

This is the second time using Driscoll, and we are pleased with the service. Michael is knowledgeable and punctual. We had eight trees trimmed, and they left no traces of the work in our yard. Polite workers. Reasonably priced as well. Highly recommend.

Schedule

Tree Removal Services Today

Get Appointment
sideimage

5 Bad Pruning Examples

Tree pruning and trimming are vital for maintaining a healthy and aesthetically appealing yard. Proper tree care ensures robust growth, a sturdy structure, and a beautiful shape. However, improper pruning can cause serious issues such as pest infestations, diseases, weakened limbs, and even tree removal emergencies. To protect your trees’ well-being, Driscoll Tree Services can recommend suitable pruning techniques. Consulting certified arborists can help you distinguish good pruning techniques from bad ones. Here are some common pruning mistakes to avoid.

secondary

Topping

Topping is one of the most harmful pruning practices. It involves cutting back large branches to stubs or lateral branches that are not large enough. Topping can cause significant stress to the tree, leading to weak and unhealthy fresh growth. This practice often results in an unnatural appearance and a weakened structure, making it more susceptible to pests, diseases, and storm damage. The best way to avoid such scenarios is to hire a tree service expert to assess and prune your trees regularly.

Lion-Tailing

Lion-tailing entails removing interior branches, leaving only the foliage at the ends. This practice creates a lion tail-like effect, which is unsightly and harmful to the tree. By removing the inner branches, lion-tailing reduces the ability to produce food through photosynthesis. It also makes the remaining branches more prone to breakage because of wind stress, as they are not supported by the removed inner growth. You can avoid these harmful effects by hiring a professional tree care company to conduct routine inspections and maintenance services.

Over-Pruning

Also referred to as excessive pruning, it involves removing too much foliage at one time. Trees rely on their leaves for photosynthesis, the process by which they produce energy. Removing too many leaves can starve the tree, weakening its overall health. Over-pruning can also cause sunscald, which is the sudden exposure of shaded bark to direct sunlight. While the damage might not be apparent initially, delaying care can lead to severe damage and premature tree removal emergencies.

Flush Cutting

Another bad pruning example is flush cutting. This practice involves cutting a branch flush with the trunk or a larger branch, rather than leaving a proper collar. Since the natural protective barrier of the branch collar is removed, it makes the tree more vulnerable to decay and disease. It is advisable to work with a professional tree care company to ensure proper pruning techniques that allow the tree to heal naturally and prevent pathogens from entering.

Pruning at the Wrong Time

secondary

Lastly, timing is crucial to tree pruning. Pruning at the wrong time of year can cause stress to the tree and leave it vulnerable to infections and infestations. If you prune in late fall or winter, you can prevent the tree from healing properly, as it is in its dormant phase. Also, pruning during the growing season can disrupt the tree’s growth cycle. It’s best to consult tree service professionals to determine the optimal time for pruning your specific tree species.

Proper tree pruning is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your trees. Avoiding bad pruning practices to ensure your trees thrive. Contact us at the Driscoll Tree Service and schedule a consultation with our arborists to access valuable guidance on the best pruning techniques for your trees. We ensure they remain strong, healthy, and visually appealing for years to come.

Other News

blog1
Jul 18,2024
Are Holes in Trees Dangerous?

Are Holes in Trees Dangerous? Trees are magnificent entities that play a vital role in our environment. Despite the many benefits, from offering shade beauty to oxygen, many trees develop holes, causing concerns about their health and safety. If you…

Read More
blog1
Aug 09,2025
How Often Should You Trim Your Trees? A Seasonal Guide

Trees are a major part of our landscape and lifestyle in Metro Atlanta and the surrounding areas. They provide shade, boost curb appeal, and even raise property value. But like anything else on your property, they need regular care. Tree…

Read More
blog1
Jul 26,2022
Tree Trimming & Pruning Mistakes to Avoid

Tree Trimming & Pruning Mistakes to Avoid Do you have trees on your property that seem in bad condition due to improper tree trimming techniques? This is a common problem that most people make, compromising the health and well-being of…

Read More
blog1
Mar 21,2023
Signs a Tree Might Fall

Signs a Tree Might Fall Many property owners appreciate and love their trees but must notice the potential danger some trees present. Research shows that many tree-related accidents could be avoided if people knew the signs and symptoms of a…

Read More
blog1
Nov 22,2023
Reasons for Early or Dull Fall Color

Reasons for Early or Dull Fall Color Autumn is celebrated for its breathtaking foliage transformation, as lush green leaves gradually change to vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and browns. However, not all falls are equal, and some are more memorable than…

Read More
blog1
May 17,2023
Fescue vs. Bermuda Grass

Fescue vs. Bermuda Grass Do you have dry patches on your lawn? Before reseeding, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with different grasses, like fescue and Bermuda. Although these grasses grow on lawns across the country, knowing the differences can…

Read More
blog1
Dec 14,2022
Mulch Myths and Truths

Mulch Myths and Truths As we head towards cooler months, it is critical to maintaining a healthy yard. One of the essential tree care practices before winter is adding a layer of mulch around your trees. You can use many…

Read More
blog1
Jun 20,2023
Professional Tree Service vs. Handyman

Professional Tree Service vs. Handyman Large green trees are a valuable addition to any landscape. Healthy trees enhance the overall curb appeal and property value, purify the air, and attract wildlife. Routine maintenance is vital to ensure your trees grow…

Read More
blog1
Jun 05,2022
How to Find a Reliable Tree Service Company

How to Find a Reliable Tree Service Company Trees are incredible ornaments that beautify the landscape and increase the value of properties. They can also provide fruits and much-needed shade as well as protection from high winds. Unhealthy and disheveled…

Read More
blog1
Jul 10,2024
Seasonal Tree Care Tips: Summer Edition

Seasonal Tree Care Tips: Summer Edition As summer kicks into full gear, trees in your yard require special attention to stay healthy and vibrant. As a trusted tree care company, Driscoll Tree Service provides routine inspections and maintenance to protect…

Read More