Just like smaller aspects of your landscaping, it’s important to regularly clean up your trees. Tree pruning is essential to its overall health, as well as aesthetic purposes, and there are several methods. Thinning out and topping are two of the most popular, and the staff at Ohana Tree Services in Honolulu, HI, wants to explain each. By understanding the advantages and purposes, you’ll be able to confidently know you’re pruning your tree properly.

Topping

Topping is a significant pruning technique that’s focused on drastically altering a tree’s appearance, as well as how it grows. When topping, the top of the tree is completely removed so there is a completely flat surface. Rather than changing the appearance at the moment, topping focuses on the long term. As new growth sprouts, branches will be more condensed, vertical, and bushier. However, issues do come with this. The new growth might not match the rest of the tree, and there’s no assurance of achieving the desired appearance. Wounds might not heal well, and, in some cases, topping can make it difficult for the tree to photosynthesize properly.

Thinning

Thinning out is a systematic tree pruning method to remove aged branches and clean up the overall appearance. When thinning, focus on larger branches jutting out from the tree’s general shape. These should be removed, and, when doing so, you should cut them all the way back to the primary trunk. This will ensure the area will heal more quickly and also promote healthy future growth. Many people feel that thinning is much healthier when compared to topping, as it allows new sprouts to grow better and maintains the tree’s overall shape.

If you’re looking for professional tree pruning services, turn to the staff at Ohana Tree Services. They offer a variety of trimming and removal services and can advise on proper tree care. Call (808) 520-0186 today to speak with their staff, and visit their website to learn more about their services.