Fall is a great time for routine tree maintenance work. Most of the work is easy and doesn’t require the use of chainsaws. Just get a new, sharp hand saw- I prefer Japanese handsaws- and good Felco snips with sharp blades. That’s it. Gloves and eye protection and you’re all set. Let’s check out some recent examples from my work sites.
Damaged branches
This poor young Acer rubrum is located near a back pathway used by residents and kids. I am sure one of the kids walked by and snapped this branch. Oh well, just clean it up by making a nice cut. Broken branches can invite pathogens to enter the tree and they look terrible. This was a quick fix.
Poor stub cuts
Another easy correction to make. Proper cuts are mandatory. The stub branch dies anyway and could lead to disease entering the tree. Make a nice cut at the branch collar. The tree will then try to close the wound. It obviously can not do that with the stub still in place.
Dead branches
This Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) gets its crown sheared a few times a year. Personally, I find it revolting. Do NOT power shear your trees, if you can help it. Sometimes, tree owners have to be educated. Sometimes strata councils don’t listen. They insist on shearing for dome-shaped crowns throughout their complexes. Horrific. The trees don’t get properly pruned and they get very gnarly at the tips where the shearing happens.
I filled up a tarp just by removing dead branches from the inside of the tree. You should be able to see through Japanese maples.
Fall tree maintenance can be fun and easy. Give it a shot with nice sharp hand saws and snips. Your trees will thank you for it!
