TREE TRIMMING &
TREE PRUNING

While these two phrases are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Pruning is done more in the interest of protecting the tree, hedge, bush or shrub; while trimming generally is limited to shrubs and hedges for aesthetic purposes. Tree pruning can save a tree if infection is present; pruning a tree is also a proactive method of proper tree care. Trimming shrubs and hedges doesn’t necessarily carry the health value that pruning does, but it can very much improve the appearance of hedges, shrubs, bushes, etc. A well-maintained property with trimmed hedges typically sees a higher value.

As certified arborists in Ottawa, Croft Tree Experts performs both of these services. First and foremost, we want to help you maintain the health of the trees on your property so that you can see those trees grow and thrive for many years to come. We have the equipment and experience to handle Ottawa tree trimming of any size and scope. For larger trees in particular, it is highly recommended that you leave this aspect of tree pruning to the pros. That way you won’t have to worry about injury to yourself and/or damage to your property. We can also prune smaller trees and hedges with expertise so that they stay healthy and will flourish over time. Or, if you prefer, we can pay a visit to your property to prune the larger trees and at the same time show you how to prune the smaller ones – it’s up to you? Now as for shrub and hedge trimming, we certainly perform these services as well. We’ll get your yard or property looking great for neighbours, guests and your family alike.

While pruning the branches of a tree may look like an art – when performed artfully by certified arborists in Ottawa like Croft Tree Services – pruning goes well beyond appearances. Pruning benefits a tree by taking a strategic approach to the overall health and long-term growth of the tree. By identifying branches or parts of the tree that are dying, sick or infected, we then make the decision that it’s time for these parts of the tree to be removed. That way the rest of the tree has a much better chance of achieving and maintaining good tree health for the long run. You might call this tree pruning process, “addition by subtraction.”

As a general rule of thumb, you can have your mature trees performed every 3-5 years; while younger trees (which are more prone to infection and stunted growth) require tree pruning once every 2-3 years. If you have a newly purchased property and aren’t sure when the last tree pruning was performed, call in Croft Tree Experts for a site visit; we’ll assess the health of the trees on your Ottawa property and advise the best course of action.

Early spring is right about the ideal time to prune trees in Ottawa. That’s because the winter has ended (hopefully!) and all the snow and ice is off the branches; but the leaves have yet to come out. This way we can clearly see the tree and all its branches, then can make a more accurate assessment of the overall tree health as well as which branches and sections will require tree pruning.

If we’re talking about trimming and not pruning, then we’re generally talking about hedges, shrubs, bushes and the like. If you’ve got a green thumb, the right equipment and enough time, you can perform this task on your own. Be careful of the trimming shears, of course, as they’re pretty sharp; and if you’re working at heights, take extra precaution with that ladder; wear safety equipment; and have a friend, neighbour or family member help out / spot you if possible. Of course you can always call Croft Tree Experts for hedge trimming in Ottawa. For tree trimming, a question we’re often asked, we’re really talking about tree pruning (see above Q&A). You can prune smaller trees on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a certified arborist for larger tree pruning; this is the safer way for you, your family and your property.