Tree Trimming Pricing Guide

What Is Tree Pruning And How Can It Affect You?

Tree pruning or trimming is the practice of removing excess branches and sub-branches in order to either facilitate aesthetics, more space, or to prevent infestations from spreading.

In simpler terms, tree trimming basically means cutting off unwanted branches for any suitable reason. Usually, this can be done by using pruning shears or via chainsaws and hacksaws.

There can be three main reasons why you might want to consider pruning options:

• To Improve Aesthetics:

Tree trimming is most of the times used to improve the physical beauty of a garden or a lawn. Yes, a natural bush of leaves is exciting. But sometimes, less really is more. Most people find that trees which don't have much to show are even more gorgeous.

But just be careful. Don't shave off too much wood for the sake of beauty or the tree might wither.

• To Increase Space:

Trees and shrubs can be annoying at times. They do add beauty and a hint of natural decoration, but they can get too big to handle. Tree pruning can help with that. Cutting off the branches will not only ensure that the tree remains alive, but will also give you a lot more space. So you can make room for the other shrubs to nestle in.

• To Remove Obstructions:

Pruning also helps remove obstructions. If a tree has grown big and dense enough to block your view out the window, pose a danger to the infrastructure of the house, block an entrance, grow over the fence and into the neighbor's yard, or simply attract animals and insects, then tree trimming is the right practice for you.

• To Prevent Infestations Or Infections:

Sometimes, you have to shear a tree. Not for your own sake, but for the tree’s health. While we advise that you take all the measures that you can to prevent infestations, it’s near impossible to stop them entirely.

If these infestations grow into something dire enough to damage the tree, then we have an issue. At this point, your best option is to remove or shear away the branches and sub-branches that are infected. This might just save you tons on planting new trees.

Is Tree Trimming Humane?

Yes, definitely. While cutting a substantial part off of a living organism may seem cruel or inhumane, it is no doubt of little concern, as long as the tree as enough branches to sustain itself.

Though they may seem sturdy and independent, trees are actually pretty delicate creatures that require a lot of love and attention (kind of like ourselves, eh?). Cutting off a few branches here and there is not wrong, and sometimes can actually help the tree recover from parasitic infections.

It is only when more than 25% of the branches are cut off that trimming poses a threat to the safety of the tree. The problem isn't lack of branches, its lack of leaves. The tree loses its only source of food, things can get a bit rough for the poor thing. 

Does Tree Pruning Affect The Eco System?

Definitely. Remember to only shear trees in the dormant season, when no animals or birds are living inside the tree. Often, amateurs end up accidentally taking away the home and lives of living breathing creatures that deserve respect. It is best to avoid it if there are animals inhabiting the place.

Now that you understand the basics lets get into tree trimming details and how they are priced:

What Types Of Tree Trimming Are There?

Tree pruning is of the following types:

• Crown Reduction:

For landscaping, crown reduction is the most common. In this, the branches of the tree are completely shorn away to reduce its height. One thing to keep in mind is to only reduce the crown when absolutely necessary. Don't overdo it, or there may be consequences.

• Crown Raising:

It is a practice of raising the crown of the tree to allow the branches to not sag down. This is usually done to provide space for pedestrians, and to clear paths. Never remove live branches from above two-thirds of the tree's height. Because, removal of more than 25% of the branches near the bottom of the crown will surely be unhealthy.

 Also remember to make as fewer cuts as possible, as they can open up the tree to fungi and infestations.

• Crown Thinning:

If the crown is too dense and full of foliage and crosshatching branching, thinning it out is your best option. Branches that are too close and snug are prone to infestations and parasitic fungi. Do not remove or shear more than a quarter of a crown all at once. If need be, do it over the course of a few years. Also remember to wash your pruning equipment every so often.

How Much Does A Tree Trimming Cost On Average?

It is a fact that tree trimming is no easy job. And it is also an established fact that it can cost a fortune, even when done on your own. 

In general, look for contractors who don't ask for much and can get the job easily done. Prices can go as high as $100, but can be reduced with discounts and bargains. But be wary; with lower prices come even lower standards. Make sure that the contractor that is providing cheap services is able to do the work right. Assess their previous works from customers, and see if the method pleases you. If not, forget the dealer.

If you want to trim trees yourself, the least it can take is a simple pair of hand pruners. However, with larger and thicker stems and trunks, you might want to use a hacksaw, hand saw, or chainsaw. Also, if you plan on cutting down the tree entirely, you might need to purchase or rent a Stump Grinder, which will help you get rid of the stump, and can itself cost a fortune.

How Can I Be Sure Which Contractor Is The Best?

There really is no one way. Even if we do prescribe some things that might give away a cheap job, those pesky fraudulent entrepreneurs will find new ways to fool us.

Nevertheless, we have narrowed down our list to the most basic ways to protect yourself from scams. Check them out:

• Get Into The Legality Of Things:

While most of us don't hold a degree in law, we can certainly assert our knowledge of basic legal requirements. In general, make sure that the contractor is a well-established business. Check the legal papers and their license to be sure. Note down their authentic number and contact information, names, and the address of the main office. Keep these safe in case they do scam you, so at least you’ll have some leads on them. 

Get everything written down in print. Never accept a verbal contract, unless there is suitable evidence for it (e.g., a recording of sorts). Always read through their terms and conditions, and enlighten yourself with any additional charges or hidden taxes.

• Check Their Reputation:

This is perhaps the one confirmed way that we personally would like to avoid scams. Make sure that your contractor has a good reputation. If a trusted friend or random stranger who isn't advertising them suggests them to you, then they're most likely authentic.

Check customer reviews (if any), and try to personally contact 1-star or 2-star raters (in the least creepy way possible) and get to know why their services are bad. Never believe what a promotions agent or salesperson tells you, as they're usually paid to praise the service.

• Assess The Work Beforehand:

If you refuse to believe any of the customer reviews or suggestions, then try their services yourself. Get them working on a small tree or shrub that you can afford to lose, and see if their work suits your tastes. If not, pay them for their time and effort, and bid them a hearty farewell.