The 15 signs that your trees need to be pruned

Why should you worry about knowing what to spot when it comes to trees in desperate need of pruning? Well, for starters, it’s important to the health of the tree.

But also, trees that are not regularly pruned can become a liability. Overgrown branches can obscure vision, making it difficult to see oncoming traffic when exiting or entering your driveway. They can also grow into power lines and pose a serious threat of electrocution or fire. Here are 15 signs that indicate your trees are in dire need of a trim.

15 of the main signs that your trees need to be pruned

1. The tree is growing into overhead power lines – This is a dangerous situation for both your tree and your home. Pruning is necessary to keep the tree from causing any damage.

2. The tree is blocking views – If you have a beautiful view that’s being obscured by a tree, pruning can help improve the aesthetic of your property.

3. The tree has dead branches – Dead branches are not only unsightly, but they can also pose a safety hazard if they were to fall on someone or something. Pruning will help get rid of these hazardous branches.

4. The tree is crowding other plants – If you have other plants that are being crowded out by a large tree, pruning can help give them the space they need to thrive.

5. The tree is interfering with walkways – If you have a tree that’s blocking a pathway, pruning can help create a clear path for pedestrians.

6. The tree is producing too much fruit – While this may seem like a good problem to have, it can actually be quite a nuisance. Too much fruit can attract pests and make a mess of your yard. Pruning can help regulate the amount of fruit your tree produces. Whilst it’s unlikely to be the case in the UK, it is one of the more common reasons why a tree surgery service is sought.

7. The tree has been damaged by storms – If your tree has been damaged by high winds or other severe weather, pruning can help remove any broken branches and encourage new growth.

8. The tree is leaning – A leaning tree can be a sign of instability and can pose a safety hazard. Pruning can help to stabilise the tree and prevent it from falling over.

9. The tree is overgrown – An overgrown tree can be difficult to manage and may need more frequent pruning to keep it under control.

10. The tree is in the way of construction – If you’re planning on doing any construction work on your property, you may need to prune back trees that are in the way.

11. The tree is attracting pests – If you have a tree that’s attracting insects or other pests, pruning can help get rid of them.

12. The tree is blocking sunlight – If you have a plant that’s not getting enough sunlight because of a tree, pruning can help increase the amount of sunlight it receives.

13. The tree is causing foundation problems – If you have a tree that’s roots are damaging your foundation, pruning can help to remove them and prevent further damage.

14. The tree is dropping leaves in your garden water features – If you have a tree that’s leaves are constantly clogging up your pool, pruning can help to reduce the amount of leaves it produces.

15. You just don’t like the way it looks – Sometimes a tree just doesn’t look good anymore and needs to be pruned for aesthetic reasons. If that’s the case, then don’t put it off any longer!

Tree Pruning vs Surgery – What’s the difference?

Pruning is the selective removal of branches or stems to achieve a desired shape or size. It’s a common practice that’s used to maintain the health and appearance of trees. Tree surgery, on the other hand, is a more drastic measure that’s usually reserved for trees that are diseased, dying, or already dead. It involves removing large sections of the tree and can often result in the death of the tree.

So, if you’re not sure whether your tree needs pruning or surgery, it’s best to consult with a professional. They’ll be able to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action. We’ve also got a guide on how often you should prune trees in the UK.

What happens if you don’t prune your trees?

If you don’t prune your trees, they can become a liability. Overgrown branches can obscure vision, making it difficult to see oncoming traffic when exiting or entering your driveway. They can also grow into power lines and pose a serious threat of electrocution or fire. Furthermore, unpruned trees are more susceptible to disease and pests. So, not only is pruning good for the tree itself, but it’s also good for your property and your safety.

Pruning is an important part of tree care, but it’s also important to know when to prune. If you’re not sure when the best time to prune your tree is, consult a professional arborist such as our team at Tree Surgeon Shrewsbury. We will be able to assess your requirements and outline what you actually need in terms of a tree surgery or retained pruning service, and how often you may require it.

What’s the average cost of tree pruning services in the UK?

The average cost of tree pruning services in the UK can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size and type of tree, the amount of work required, and whether you need stump grinding or removal services. However, as a general guide, you can expect to pay between £50 and £350 + VAT for tree pruning services.

Our team will be happy to give you a quote if you provide further information about the cost of tree surgery in the wider Shrewsbury and Shropshire areas.

I’ve never had a tree pruning service before – Where do I start?

If you’ve never had a tree pruning service before, don’t worry – our team will be able to talk you through the process and help you understand what’s involved. We’ll also provide you with a free, no-obligation quote so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not tree surgery is right for you. Contact us today to find out more.