Oak trees are a beloved and iconic feature of many landscapes across the country. With their broad canopies and sturdy trunks, they provide shade and shelter for both humans and wildlife alike. However, as with any living object, oak trees require care and maintenance to thrive. Trimming oak trees is an essential part of this care, and in this article, we will explore why.
The Importance of Trimming Oak Trees
Promotes Healthy Growth: Trimming oak trees encourages healthy growth patterns. Removing dead or diseased branches helps the tree allocate resources to healthy growth and prevents potential damage to the tree’s structure. Too much trimming will harm your oak tree.
Texas A&M Forest Service (n.d.) informs us that routine thinning does not necessarily improve the health of a tree. Trees produce a dense crown of leaves to manufacture the sugar used as energy for growth and development. Removal of foliage through pruning can reduce growth and stored energy reserves. Heavy pruning can be a significant health stress for the tree.
Enhances Aesthetic Appeal: Trimming oak trees help to maintain their appearance and enhance the appearance of your landscape. Proper pruning techniques allow the tree to maintain its natural shape and provide an opportunity to remove unsightly branches, boosting its aesthetic appeal.
Prevents Hazards: Overgrown oak trees are at risk of becoming hazards to your property and loved ones. Heavy branches can topple during storms or high winds, causing damage to your property or potential harm to people walking beneath them. Regular trimming removes these potential hazards and ensures the safety of your property and those living or working nearby.
Read one of our other articles titled, “How to Care for Oak Trees.”
When to Trim Oak Trees
The ideal time to trim oak trees varies depending on the desired outcome. In general, the best time to trim oak trees is during their dormant seasons. Late fall and winter are ideal times for heavy pruning, while spring is the best season for light trimming.
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension (n.d.) one additional note about the pruning time is in reference to oak wilt; a devastating disease of oak trees that is especially prevalent in central Texas but has reached other areas of the state as well.
The beetle that spreads oak wilt and the infectious fungal mats on which the beetles feed are most active in spring but may be active in most months of the year. If you prune oaks when beetles and fungal mat infections are active you are inviting these disease carrying beetles to come and infect your tree.
Thus pruning of oaks is best kept to the coldest months or if absolutely necessary, the hottest months in order to avoid inviting trouble. It is also important to paint pruning cuts on oak immediately (not hours later) with a commercial pruning sealant or latex paint to repel the beetles (para. 11 and 12).
Trimming Techniques
When trimming oak trees, it’s essential to employ proper pruning techniques to ensure the health and longevity of the tree. Here are some basic techniques to follow:
Identify the branches to remove: Determine which branches need removal to accomplish your desired outcome. Avoid removing more than 25% of the tree’s canopy, as this will cause damage.
Cut at a healthy angle: When removing branches, cut them at a healthy angle, leaving a small collar at the base. Avoid cutting flush against the tree’s trunk, which will cause damage and rot.
Choose the right tools: Use sharp, quality pruning tools that are appropriate for the size of the tree and the branches to prevent damage to the tree or injury to the trimmer.
Learn about different types of oak trees, so you can choose the best oak for your yard.
When to Call in the Professionals
While trimming oak trees is an essential part of their care, it is a dangerous and challenging task. In many cases, it is best left to trained professionals who have the experience and equipment necessary to complete the job safely and efficiently. If your oak tree requires heavy pruning or you don’t feel confident in your abilities, go to our Tree Trimming Service Page.
Oak trees are prone to oak wilt disease. Read about oak wilt and the other most common tree diseases in North Texas.
Conclusion
Trimming oak trees is an essential part of maintaining a healthy, aesthetically pleasing, and safe landscape. Regular trimming promotes healthy growth, enhances the tree’s appearance, and helps prevent hazardous situations.
Employ proper pruning techniques, choose the right tools, and know when to call in the professionals to ensure that your oak tree receives the best care possible. By prioritizing trimming, you can enjoy your oak trees for generations to come.
References:
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. (n.d.). Pruning trees and shrubs with a purpose. Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. https://travis-tx.tamu.edu/about-2/horticulture/ornamental-plants/pruning-trees-and-shrubs-with-a-purpose/
Texas A&M Forest Service. (n.d.). How do i care for my tree? Texas A&M Forest Service. https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/uploadedFiles/TFS_Main/Urban_and_Community_Forestry/About_Urban_and_Community_Forestry/Urban_Forest_Information_Sheets/How%20do%20I%20care%20for%20my%20tree%20-%20Pruning%20Mature%20Trees.pdf
