Parkway Tree Trimming
Tree trimming program
Tree trimming is an essential part of an urban forest management program. When done properly, selective pruning removes dead, diseased, crowded, weakly attached, and hazardous limbs to promote tree health and structural integrity. However, when done improperly, trimming can cause even more problems. The focus of this section is to lay out a set of standards and procedures for the proper pruning of trees.
Procedure
Before trimming, a visual assessment of the tree’s form, structure, health should be conducted with the knowledge of what a typical representative of the species should look like (is the tree upright or spreading, dense or open, large or a dwarf). Once this has been determined, trimming should begin with the limbs that must be removed; for example, dead branches, clearance hazards and crossing limbs. After these have been removed, another visual assessment should be made to determine if the tree needs thinning of crowded areas or training to maintain good branching structure. Finally, the tree may be trimmed to promote symmetry. Pruning cuts should be made using the three cut method starting first with an under cut about a foot away from the trunk to prevent ripping the bark, followed by a second cut through the limb about 6 inches further out on the limb. The final cut is a collar cut to promote rapid closure of the wound. Tree paints and other wound treatments will not be used because they can actually hamper the natural healing process.
Ornamental pruning should be scheduled for the dormant months so it does not interfere with the growing season. Hazard and clearance pruning must be done on an “as needed” basis for safety reasons. Pruning should not remove more than 1/3 of the tree's leaf area at any one time. If more pruning is required after 1/3 has been removed, it should be done over the course of several years so the tree doesn’t go into shock. Care should also be taken to balance the branching to disperse the effects of high winds throughout the tree.
All debris generated by pruning will be removed by the Village, chipped, and made available to residents at the Public Works yard.