18 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | DECEMBER 2016
TREE TRIMMING: WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
The three-part answer is: it makes them pretty, it makes them
healthy, and it makes them safe. Let's start with safety. Not usually
a thing you think of when you're gazing out your window at your
stoic oak or crape myrtle, but safety plays a big part in not only the
trimming process but the overall safety of the area around your
home. Trimming back dead branches or useless "shooters" lessens
the potential fire danger should your tree or any structures nearby
catch fire. Another safety concern is debris on the ground. Not
only can this be potentially dangerous for pedestrians, but if left
unattended for long periods of time, dead plant matter can mold and
rot which attracts insects. This can also happen within the tree itself.
If dead matter is left untrimmed, the decaying material can attract
wood boring insects which will weaken the tree and eventually cause
it to fall.
Proper trimming of trees promotes health beyond that of just
safety. You've heard the phrase: An ounce of prevention is worth
a pound of cure, right? Better to prevent any safety hazards by
promoting healthy tree growth. By removing any dead matter you
are making room for the tree to grow new, healthy branches and
leaves, and instead of using its resources to combat disease and pests,
it can now develop a healthier root system.
Beyond health and safety, the one aspect most people will notice
first is the outward appearance of a nicely trimmed tree. Keeping your
trees somewhat uniform in size by trimming is an easy way to develop
pleasing aesthetics. Anytime a tree dominates the landscaping it can
be a tricky fix. If you groom your lawn and plants well, no matter the
size or species of the tree, your yard will be appealing visually. By
removing rotting leaves, dead shoots, and unhealthy branches you
are able to showcase a healthy, handsome area.
The Landscape Committee wishes you all the best this holiday
season. ~ Lina Ruoff
Landscape Committee
