Tree Care and Maintenance

Seasonal Tree Care Tips: Spring

Pruning Young Trees

Now that you’ve planted the right tree species in the right place, young tree structural pruning is one of the most important things you can do. Thoughtful and proper pruning early in the life of a tree can reduce the need for maintenance over time, improve structure and strength, and perhaps increase the tree’s lifespan. When the tree is first installed, limit pruning to the removal of dead and broken branches only. The tree needs two to three years to recover from transplanting shock, and as much foliage as possible during this time to create and store energy through photosynthesis while its roots become established and begin to expand. In years three or four, you can begin to remove defective branches and thin excessive branches. Around years five to seven, you’ll want to select the lowest permanent branches and check for even branch spacing throughout the crown. After that, inspect the tree early each spring and prune dead and defective branches as needed. Remember, every pruning cut should be made for a purpose and with good intention. It is critical that you use the right tools and make proper cuts to promote wound closure and avoid damage. When in doubt, consult with an ISA Certified Arborist, and be on the lookout for free annual pruning workshops  hosted by the City’s Urban & Community Forestry program. Check out these resources to learn more:

Brochure – Pruning Young Trees by the International Society of Arboriculture

Webpage – Annual Tree Pruning Steps from Planting to Maturity by the Arbor Day Foundation

Video – Training Young Trees by Larry Costello and Ellyn Shea

Please check back for more seasonal tree care and maintenance advice!

Link to Tree Care and Maintenance Archives
 

Archives

Winter 2017: Tree Related Storm Damage

Fall 2017: New Tree Selection and Planting

Summer 2017: Trees and Turfgrasses

Spring 2017: English Ivy Removal

Winter 2017: Recognizing Tree Risk

Summer 2016: Drought Stress

Fall 2016: Preparing Trees for Winter

Additional Tree Care Resources:

Right Tree in the Right Place

Use this handy guide for assistance in choosing the right species of tree based on the constraints of a site, such as overhead wires, narrow plant strips, and proximity to structures.

"Right Tree Right Place" - helpful information such as "Use this guide for assistance in choosing the right species of tree based on the constraints of a site, such as overhead wires, narrow plant strips, and proximity to structures."

"Master Plant List" - a guide to the plants that are acceptable for mitigation requirements in Lake Oswego.