Tree Pruning on Vancouver Island is what we do!
Tree Pruning Service Nanaimo. The way you prune trees on Vancouver Island depends primarily on the special circumstances of the tree in question. While there are some general rules regarding the different types, timing, and frequency of pruning, in an urban environment that is so rich with trees, the work performed needs to be adjusted to the situation and goals of each tree owner, within reason.
The following are general guidelines for the most common frequencies, timing and types of pruning for the majority of the trees you will find on Vancouver Island. If you ever have questions about your particular tree, feel free to call us at 250-668-9914 or Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Pruning
How do I know if my trees need to be pruned? Most if not all mature trees in our urban environment need regular pruning to maintain their health. Trees should be pruned every 2-7 years depending on many factors. Our arborist can estimate the last time a tree was pruned and recommend a pruning schedule.
How often do my trees need to be pruned? Most commonly trees should be pruned every 3-4 years but this could be as much as every year if there are special circumstances or as much as 7 years depending on the type of tree.
My trees have been topped can you fix them? No, we can not undo what has already been done. Your tree will never be as beautiful as it would have been, but we can, over a period of years, reverse some of the damage and return your tree to health and viability.
I hate my neighbor’s tree what can I do? Not much. Your best bet is to work with your neighbor to come to a compromise. You could offer to pay half of the costs or get the opinion of an arborist in regard what should be done with the tree. What you should not do is go ahead and prune or remove the tree even if it is on your property. Legal or not (we are not lawyers) this could lead to an expensive legal battle. We can often help neighbors come to a compromise, but as a policy we do not do work where neighbors are in disagreement.
My neighbor’s tree is threatening my property what can I do? If your neighbor’s tree is truly a threat we still recommend you try and work it out with them. There are in this case, a few things you can do to force their hand. One is bring the tree to the attention of the city by submitting an arborist report on the tree. In certain cases they can order it removed. You can also report the tree to their home owners’ insurance company or HOA and that may force them to have it taken care of. But we cannot stress enough, how much better things work out in the end, when you can come to an agreement with your neighbor.
Frequency of Pruning
Deciduous trees
Most deciduous trees on Vancouver Island will benefit from pruning every 3-5 years. This frequency may need to be increased if the trees are close to or over structures.
Pruning a tree more heavily less frequently in order to avoid regular pruning often creates the opposite of the desired effect. The tree sends out significant new growth in response to the heavy pruning, resulting in more frequent follow-ups. There is a delicate balance of taking just the right amount that must be maintained, something the arborists at Flex Tree Service are well-versed in.
Evergreen trees
Most of the large fir and pine trees in the Portland area need to be pruned every 5-7 years. It is important, however, to inspect trees for changes that may affect their health and therefore their pruning schedule during this time. When in doubt, ask an arborist.
Cedars and other evergreens should be pruned every 3-5 years in most cases. This frequency may need to be increased if the trees are close to or over structures, which many trees in the area are. Again, when in doubt, it is always better to get the opinion of a professional than damage one of our area’s greatest resources.
Ornamental trees
Most ornamental trees can be pruned at the specific tastes of the owner. Most commonly, these types of trees are pruned yearly or every other year. Some however, are pruned as much as twice a year to achieve the desired look. It depends on the preferences of the owner and the situation more than anything.
Timing of Pruning
The timing of pruning your trees is very dependent of the type and condition of the tree. If your tree has not been regularly maintained, the best time to prune is now. If you have kept to a regular tree pruning schedule then the best timing for pruning will depend on the type of tree and your convenience.