Structural corrective pruning is the most important pruning procedure your tree should ever have. Because juvenile trees come from the nursery with no attention to their structural development they often grow afflicted with overcrowded, poorly attached limb distribution and if left uncorrected become "that tree on the neighbor's roof" The procedure should occur early in the structural development phase ,typically five to seven years  or three to 8 inch diameter. Of primary concern is the development of co-dominate limbs including the bark, followed by limb distribution and overcrowded limbs. This results in a mature tree soon with a strong structure, as all available energy created is directed to the primary structure of the tree and is not wasted on limbs which eventually will need removing

Structural pruning is one the many tree repair jobs we offer at The Palms Tree Service Inc. In a forest, many trees must compete for a limited amount of sunlight. Unfortunately, landscaped trees do not have this natural competition and will therefore develop too many trunks and off shoots. These structures are not as stable as they could be, and are susceptible to breakage over time. Trees with one primary leader and healthy branch structures will live longer, healthier lives.

Structural pruning aims to re-create the healthy branch and trunk structure which occur naturally in the forest, despite the fact that your trees live in a non-forested landscape. The Tree MDs can actually train your trees to grow a single, strong trunk with properly distributed lateral limbs and uniform structures. This kind of special attention pays off in the long run, because the pruned trees will require less maintenance in the future. This is because structural pruning - when done correctly - promotes stability, uniform growth, and balance throughout the tree.     

                                             Example of Structural Corrective Pruning:                                   

                    Before                                                                            After

The purpose of structural corrective pruning is to make the a tree stronger. By identifying weakly attached branches or overloaded limbs a plan is developed to modify the architecture of the tree usually over a three phases. First selecting the predominate structure of the tree and then like surgery removing part or all of the undesirable growth while still maintaining a adequate healthy canopy to insure abundant food production . Usually two years later the second phase continues by removing limbs and maintaining others while interior growth is developing. Finally in the final phase the terminal leaders are reduce and the tree now has a lower profile and a relatively stronger structure providing less resistance to the wind and still  providing shade and beauty.

Shade trees are especially susceptible to incorrect off shoot growth and insecure branch structure. If you have shade trees in your yard, have the professionals at The Tree MD take a close look. With the use of reduction cuts, a single, dominant leader can be created to support stable and balanced branch structures. This means that your shade trees will not only look much better and provide a fuller shade, but they will live a healthier, longer life - just as they would in their natural habitat.

It is important to start the structural pruning process early in the life of the tree. This ensures that unhealthy branch and lead structures are dealt with early on. Otherwise, significant branch removal may be necessary as the years pass, leaving you with an unsightly, lopsided, and potentially hazardous tree.

Regular structural pruning can help avoid damages to your home, car, property, and family. Unbalanced trees can be a significant risk. The experts at The Tree MD understand all kinds of Florida trees and can execute high quality structural pruning to ensure the safety and longevity of your trees.

The Palms Tree Service Inc. since 1972 The most trusted name in tree care!

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