A tree is pruned to achieve one or more of the following 4 objectives: increase light transmission, reduce wind resistance, reduce weight and leverage on the tree, and the remove dead, diseased, decayed, and obviously weak branches.  Proper pruning, including technique and timing, is essential to the health and future growth of your trees.  Improper pruning practices may result in damage or the total loss of a tree.  Our ISA Certified Arborists at Titan Tree Care can help you determine the correct course of action to keep your yard looking manicured and trees healthy.  The 4 main methods of pruning are:     

1. Crown Thinning: Crown Thinning is the removal of a portion of smaller/tertiary branches, usually at the outer crown, to produce a uniform density of foliage around an evenly spaced branch structure. It is usually confined to broad-leaved species and should be performed regularly to maintain the structure and health of the tree.
2. Crown Lifting or Crown Raising: Crown lifting is the removal of the lowest branches and/or preparing of lower branches for future removal. Crown lifting typically excludes the removal of large branches growing directly from the trunk, specifically in mature trees which may lead to future damage and decay.  Not only does crown lifting increase light transmission to the inner portion of the tree, but it also provides an established clear height area below the tree.
3. Crown Reduction: Crown reduction is reducing the height or spread of the crown while maintaining the structural framework of the crown.  The amount lost should be minimal and overseen by an ISA certified arborist.  Not all species are suitable for this treatment and crown reduction should not be confused with ‘topping’, an indiscriminate and harmful treatment
4. Hazard Pruning for Safety: Hazard Pruning is the removal of dead, diseased, decayed, and obviously weak branches, two inches in diameter or greater.