Expert Tree Maintenance for Healthier, Safer Trees
Tree trimming is one of the most valuable investments you can make for your property’s landscaping. Regular trimming promotes healthy growth, removes diseased branches, and enhances the overall appearance of your trees. United Tree Care offers professional tree trimming services designed to keep your trees thriving while maintaining the safety and aesthetics of your outdoor spaces.
Whether you need routine maintenance trimming, hazard branch removal, or crown shaping, our team of certified arborists and experienced tree care specialists brings over 15 years of hands-on expertise to every project.
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Schedule Your Professional Tree Trimming Today
Contact us today for a free tree trimming estimate and experience the difference professional care makes for your valuable trees. Whether you need routine maintenance, hazard mitigation, or aesthetic improvements, our team is ready to deliver results that enhance your property’s safety, appearance, and value.
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What United Tree Care Tree Trimming Includes
United Tree Care provides comprehensive tree trimming services tailored to meet the specific needs of your trees and property. Our professional approach addresses multiple aspects of tree care to ensure optimal results:
- Branch Assessment and Removal: Our arborists carefully evaluate each branch for health, structure, and safety. We remove dead, diseased, damaged, or hazardous branches using proper cutting techniques that promote tree healing and growth. Dead wood removal prevents pest infestation and disease spread while improving the tree’s appearance.
- Canopy Thinning and Crown Work: United Tree Care performs selective thinning to improve light penetration and air circulation throughout your tree’s canopy. Crown work includes crown raising, crown reduction, and crown shaping to achieve your desired aesthetic and functional goals. These techniques are applied with precision to maintain the tree’s natural form and health.
- Structural Pruning We provide structural pruning services for young and mature trees to develop or maintain strong branch architecture. Proper structural pruning prevents future problems and extends tree lifespan by establishing branches with good attachment angles and balanced distribution.
- Disease and Pest Management Through Trimming: United Tree Care removes branches showing signs of disease, pest infestation, or damage. This service helps prevent the spread of pathogens and reduces pest populations that could affect other parts of your tree or nearby vegetation.
- Safety Branch Removal: We identify and remove branches that pose safety hazards—including branches hanging over structures, crossing power lines, or showing signs of structural weakness. United Tree Care prioritizes the safety of your family, property, and community.
- Crown Raising for Clearance: Our crew removes lower branches to increase clearance between the tree and ground-level features like roofs, decks, driveways, walkways, and vehicles. Crown raising is essential for maintaining safe passage and protecting structures from branch damage.
- Hazard Limb Removal: United Tree Care specializes in identifying and removing hazardous limbs that could fail during storms or high winds. We assess branch angles, attachment points, and wood condition to determine which branches require removal for safety.
- Post-Storm Cleanup and Damage Assessment: Following severe weather, United Tree Care responds quickly to remove fallen branches, assess tree damage, and restore safety to your property. Our emergency response services help you regain use of your landscape after storms.
- Debris Removal and Cleanup: Every trimming project includes professional cleanup. United Tree Care removes all branches and debris from your property, with options for chipping, hauling, or mulch utilization based on your preferences.
- Professional Arborist Consultation: United Tree Care arborists provide expert recommendations for ongoing tree care, including future trimming schedules, disease management, and maintenance practices specific to your trees’ species and condition.
What Is Tree Trimming?
Tree trimming involves the selective removal of specific branches from a tree to achieve multiple goals. Unlike tree removal or topping, trimming is a precision service that preserves the integrity and longevity of your trees while addressing specific concerns.
During a professional trimming session, our arborists assess your tree’s structure, health, and growth patterns. We remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches, thin the canopy for better light penetration, and shape the tree to promote balanced growth. This process requires knowledge of proper pruning techniques, an understanding of tree biology, and an appreciation for the aesthetic goals you want to achieve.
Benefits of Professional Tree Trimming
Promotes Tree Health
Regular trimming removes diseased, dead, or damaged branches that can harbor pests and pathogens. By eliminating these problem areas, you allow the tree to direct its energy toward healthy growth. Proper trimming also improves air circulation throughout the canopy, reducing the risk of fungal infections and other tree diseases. Healthy trees are more resistant to pest infestations and can better withstand environmental stress from drought or pollution.
Key health benefits include:
- Removal of diseased branches that spread infection
- Improved nutrient distribution throughout the tree
- Enhanced photosynthesis in remaining foliage
- Reduced pest and disease habitat
- Stronger overall tree structure and longevity
Improves Safety
Overgrown or weakened branches pose serious risks to your property and the people on it. Branches that hang over homes, garages, or driveways can fall during storms or high winds, causing damage or injury. Professional trimming removes branches that are structurally weak, rubbing against each other, or growing at dangerous angles. Safety trimming protects your family, neighbors, and property investment.
Safety concerns addressed through trimming:
- Branches hanging over rooflines
- Dead limbs that could fall unexpectedly
- Branches interfering with utility lines
- Low branches blocking sightlines on walkways
- Branches with poor attachment angles prone to failure
- Branches touching or damaging structures
Enhances Appearance
A well-trimmed tree is visually appealing and adds beauty to your landscape. Strategic trimming can enhance the tree’s natural shape, remove awkward growth patterns, and create a more symmetrical, attractive appearance. This is especially important for specimen trees or prominent trees in your yard. Trees frame your property and contribute significantly to curb appeal and property value.
Aesthetic benefits include:
- More attractive, balanced tree shape
- Removal of crossing or conflicting branches
- Enhanced natural form and character
- Better display of tree structure and bark
- Improved visual interest in landscaping
- Increased property curb appeal and value
Increases Sunlight and Airflow
Dense canopies can block sunlight from reaching your home, yard, or other plants below the tree. Thinning the canopy through selective trimming allows more light to reach your property while improving air circulation, which reduces moisture retention and promotes healthier growth. This can improve the health of shade-loving plants and reduce humidity around your home.
Sunlight and airflow benefits:
- More natural light reaching your home and yard
- Ability to grow shade-sensitive plants beneath trees
- Reduced moisture that attracts mold and mildew
- Better lawn health under tree canopies
- Improved air quality through better circulation
- Potential energy savings from natural light
Prevents Future Problems
Regular maintenance trimming prevents small issues from becoming major problems. Addressing crossing branches, weak branch angles, and diseased wood early on reduces the need for emergency tree removal later and helps trees live longer, healthier lives. Preventative care is far less expensive than emergency removal or storm damage repair.
Prevention benefits include:
- Avoidance of costly emergency removals
- Prevention of storm damage and liability issues
- Extended tree lifespan
- Reduced risk of property damage
- Lower long-term maintenance costs
- Peace of mind knowing trees are safe
Professional Trimming for Healthier Trees
Our Tree Trimming Process
United Tree Care follows industry best practices and international tree care standards when performing trimming services. Our methodical approach ensures every project achieves the best possible results.
- Initial Assessment: United Tree Care arborists examine your tree’s overall health, structure, and your specific goals for the project. We take time to understand what you want to achieve and identify any potential concerns.
- Safety Planning: We evaluate potential hazards, plan the work sequence, and implement safety protocols to protect your property and our crew. Safety is United Tree Care’s top priority on every job.
- Precision Trimming: Using proper pruning techniques, United Tree Care specialists selectively remove branches according to horticultural standards. We make cuts at the branch collar to promote healing and prevent disease entry.
- Clean-Up: All debris is removed from your property by United Tree Care, leaving your yard clean and ready to enjoy.
- Recommendations: United Tree Care provides guidance on tree care, watering, and future maintenance needs specific to your landscape.
Types of Tree Trimming
Crown Thinning
Crown thinning involves selective removal of branches throughout the canopy to reduce density. This technique allows more light and air to pass through the tree while maintaining its overall shape and structure. Crown thinning is ideal for trees that are overly dense or when you want to increase sunlight to your home or yard.
Crown Raising
Crown raising removes lower branches to increase clearance between the tree and ground-level structures or to improve visibility. This technique is useful for trees near driveways, sidewalks, or buildings where low-hanging branches create obstacles or safety concerns.
Crown Reduction
Crown reduction carefully reduces the overall size of the tree’s canopy by removing branches while maintaining the tree’s health and natural shape. This approach is gentler than severe topping and helps manage tree size while preserving the tree’s structural integrity.
Deadwood Removal
Deadwood removal focuses on eliminating branches that are dead, dying, or diseased. Removing these branches prevents the spread of disease, reduces pest habitat, and improves the tree’s appearance and health.
Structural Pruning
Structural pruning shapes young or newly planted trees to develop strong branch angles and proper form. This preventative approach reduces the need for corrective pruning later and helps trees develop into strong, healthy specimens.
When Should Trees Be Trimmed?
Seasonal Considerations
The best time for tree trimming varies by species and condition. Generally, late winter and early spring (before new growth begins) are ideal for most trees. This timing allows trees to heal quickly as they enter their active growth phase.
Summer trimming can help control growth, but it should be limited to removing diseased or hazardous branches. Avoid heavy trimming in fall, as this stimulates new growth that may be damaged by frost. Winter trimming is acceptable for most species but may increase disease susceptibility in some trees.
Health-Related Trimming
Dead, diseased, or hazardous branches should be removed as soon as they are identified, regardless of season. These branches pose safety risks or indicate health problems that need immediate attention.
Professional Guidance
Our certified arborists can assess your tree’s specific needs and recommend the ideal trimming schedule. Some trees benefit from annual maintenance trimming, while others need attention every few years.
Why Hire a Professional for Tree Trimming?
Tree trimming requires more than just a chainsaw and a willingness to climb. Professional arborists bring specialized knowledge, proper equipment, and safety training. Choosing a professional tree care company protects your safety, your property, and your trees’ long-term health.
- Safety Expertise: Working at height with power tools is dangerous. Our crew is trained in fall protection, equipment operation, and emergency procedures. Professional tree care specialists undergo extensive safety training and maintain current certifications in first aid and rescue procedures.
- Proper Technique: Incorrect trimming can damage trees, create disease entry points, or trigger excessive sprouting. Professional arborists know how to make cuts that promote healing and proper growth. We understand branch collar anatomy, cutting angles, and species-specific requirements.
- Tree Health Knowledge: Different species have different needs. Our team understands the biology and growth patterns of the trees in your landscape. We can identify diseases, pests, and health problems that untrained eyes might miss.
- Equipment and Tools: Professional-grade equipment allows for efficient, precise work. We have the right tools for every situation—from hand pruners for small branches to bucket trucks and specialized rigging for large limbs.
- Insurance and Licensing: Licensed tree care companies carry insurance to protect you and your property. This protection is valuable if unexpected issues arise during work.
- Compliance with Standards: Our work follows ANSI A300 Standards and International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) guidelines, ensuring best practices in all trimming operations.
- Liability Protection: Professional tree care companies maintain general liability and workers’ compensation insurance, protecting you from potential accidents or damages.
Signs Your Trees Need Trimming
Consider scheduling a professional assessment if you notice any of these signs:
- Dead or diseased branches in the canopy
- Branches hanging over your roof, deck, or driveway
- Branches rubbing against each other or the trunk
- The tree is blocking sunlight from reaching your home or yard
- The tree appears unbalanced or misshapen
- Low-hanging branches interfering with walkways or sightlines
- Signs of pest infestation or disease
- The tree hasn’t been trimmed in several years
- Branches touching or damaging structures like fences or gutters
- Excessive branch growth creating a dense, heavy canopy
- Branches growing across walkways or driveways
- The tree is too close to power lines
- Bark damage or splits in branches from storm damage
- Branches with weak angles prone to breaking
- Trees showing signs of disease like fungal growth, cankers, or unusual discoloration
Tree Trimming and Tree Health
Proper trimming supports long-term tree health. When branches are removed correctly, trees can heal effectively and direct their energy toward healthy growth. Trees respond to trimming by producing new growth and strengthening remaining branches.
However, improper trimming can damage trees. Practices like topping (removing large portions of the main branches), stripping branches to trunk, or leaving stubs can cause long-term decline. These mistakes create wounds that trees cannot heal, leading to disease, pest infestation, and structural weakness.
At United Tree Care, we follow ANSI A300 Standards for tree care, which provide guidelines for pruning, trimming, and general tree maintenance. These standards ensure that every trimming project performed by United Tree Care promotes tree health and safety. Our commitment to industry standards means you can trust that your trees are being cared for by professionals who understand modern arboriculture best practices.
United Tree Care’s experienced team knows that each tree species responds differently to trimming, and we adjust our techniques accordingly. Whether you have oak, maple, pine, fruit trees, or ornamental species, United Tree Care applies the right approach for your specific trees.
Your Tree, Your Rules – We Just Make It Happen
Frequently Asked Questions
About Tree Trimming
Will trimming hurt my tree?
Proper trimming doesn’t hurt trees—it helps them. When performed correctly by trained professionals, trimming removes problematic branches and promotes healthy growth. Improper trimming, however, can cause damage. Trees have evolved to respond positively to branch removal, compartmentalizing wounds and directing energy toward healing. The key is using proper cutting techniques and following horticultural standards to maximize the tree’s ability to recover.
How much should I trim my tree?
Generally, you should remove no more than 25% of a tree’s canopy in a single year. Removing too much foliage can stress the tree and reduce its ability to produce food through photosynthesis. Heavy trimming can also trigger excessive sprouting and weaken the tree’s structure. Our arborists carefully calculate the right amount of material to remove based on your tree’s species, age, and health condition.
Can I trim my own trees?
Small branches on low-growing areas can be safely trimmed with hand pruners. However, branches higher than 8-10 feet, larger branches, or work involving power equipment should be handled by professionals to ensure safety and proper technique. Climbing trees, working at heights, and using chain saws creates significant injury risks. Professional tree care specialists are trained in fall protection, equipment safety, and proper cutting methods that homeowners typically lack.
How often should trees be trimmed?
Most trees benefit from trimming every 3-5 years for maintenance. Young trees may need more frequent pruning to establish proper structure and encourage strong branch development. Mature ornamental trees often require annual or biennial trimming to maintain appearance and health. Trees with disease or hazardous branches should be assessed more often, sometimes annually or after severe weather events.
Is tree trimming the same as tree topping?
No. Tree trimming is selective branch removal that promotes health and safety. Tree topping removes the entire top portion of the tree, which is harmful and should be avoided. Topping creates large wounds that trees cannot heal, invites disease and pest infestation, and often triggers weak, problematic growth. Professional trimming removes specific branches while maintaining the tree’s natural form and structural integrity.
What's the difference between trimming, pruning, and cutting?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they have different meanings in tree care. Trimming typically refers to removing branches for health, safety, or appearance. Pruning is more specific pruning involves removing branches to shape growth, remove dead wood, or improve structure. Cutting is a broader term that can include tree removal or major branch removal. Professional arborists use precise terminology and techniques for each approach.
Will my tree bleed after trimming?
Some trees, particularly maples and birches, may leak sap or “bleed” after trimming. This is a natural response and generally not harmful to the tree. The bleeding typically stops as the tree’s natural healing processes activate. Contrary to old advice, applying wound dressing or sealant is not recommended by modern arboriculture standards—trees heal best when left alone after proper cutting.
Should I use wound dressing or tree sealant after trimming?
Modern arboriculture research shows that trees heal more effectively without wound dressing or sealant. These products can trap moisture and actually slow the healing process. The best practice is to make clean cuts at the branch collar and let the tree’s natural compartmentalization process work. Our team makes proper cuts that allow trees to heal quickly and naturally.
What time of year is best for tree trimming?
Late winter and early spring (February through April in most regions) are ideal for trimming most tree species. This timing allows trees to heal quickly as they enter their active growth phase. However, trimmed branches can vary by species, and some trees are best trimmed in late summer. Dead or hazardous branches should be removed immediately, regardless of season.
Can trimming prevent storm damage?
Yes. Professional trimming removes weak branches, improves branch angles, and reduces wind resistance through crown thinning. These modifications help trees withstand storms better. However, no amount of trimming can guarantee a tree will survive severe weather. Trees are natural organisms subject to nature’s forces, but proper maintenance significantly improves their resilience.
How do I know if a tree is healthy enough to trim?
Healthy trees generally tolerate trimming well. Our arborists assess tree health by looking at leaf color and density, bark condition, branch structure, and signs of disease or pest damage. Trees experiencing severe stress from drought, disease, or pest infestation may need to recover before extensive trimming. We always evaluate each tree individually to determine the safest, most effective trimming approach.
What happens to the branches after they're removed?
We offer several options for branch disposal. Most debris is chipped into mulch that can be used in your landscape or hauled away. Larger logs can sometimes be retained for firewood or yard art. We’ll discuss your preferences and handle cleanup professionally, leaving your property clean and ready to enjoy.
Do I need an arborist for tree trimming, or can any tree service do it?
While any tree service can trim branches, certified arborists bring specialized training in tree biology, proper pruning techniques, and disease identification. An arborist can assess your tree’s health, recommend appropriate trimming methods, and identify potential problems that untrained workers might miss. For valuable trees or complex situations, working with certified arborists ensures the best outcome.
Get Your Free Tree Trimming Estimate Today
United Tree Care provides complimentary estimates for all tree trimming projects. Our arborists will assess your trees, discuss your goals, and provide a clear, detailed quote with no obligation.
Contact United Tree Care today to schedule your free assessment. Whether you need routine maintenance trimming, specialized arborist consultations, emergency branch removal, or comprehensive tree care services, United Tree Care is here to help your trees thrive. With over 15 years of experience serving the region, United Tree Care has the expertise and dedication to deliver excellent results on every project.
United Tree Care is committed to being your trusted partner in tree maintenance and landscape management. We bring professional knowledge, proven techniques, and genuine care for your trees to every job we undertake.
Contact United Tree Care today to schedule your free assessment. Whether you need routine maintenance trimming, specialized arborist consultations, emergency branch removal, or comprehensive tree care services, United Tree Care is here to help your trees thrive. With over 15 years of experience serving the region, United Tree Care has the expertise and dedication to deliver excellent results on every project.
United Tree Care is committed to being your trusted partner in tree maintenance and landscape management. We bring professional knowledge, proven techniques, and genuine care for your trees to every job we undertake.