Oak trees can be some of the most beautiful trees in the neighborhood with their huge canopies and branching limbs. An unruly oak that is left to grow in every direction is not only unsightly but can be a source of diseases that can affect all the trees in your area. To ensure that your oaks stay beautiful and healthy, a good pruning from time to time is necessary. With the right garden tools, tree trimming can be an easy and fun task, especially if safety precautions are followed.
1Check with your local nursery to plan when you should prune your oak tree according to the species you have and your region. Some will be pruned during summer, others during the winter.Ad
2Make a cut under the branch (bottom side) approximately 1/3 of the way through and 1 to 2 feet (0.3 to 0.6 m) from the trunk.
3Make a second cut on the same branch on top but 3 inches (7.6 cm) from the first cut and all the way through; these 2 cuts prevent the branch from tearing the branch bark, and damaging the tree when falling into the trunk.
4Remove all small lower branches.
5Remove all dead branches.
6Make all final (after removing the branch) cuts flush against the tree trunk's "collar;" do not leave any "knobs."
7Use a sealer on the wound, such as paint, to seal each cut immediately after removing the branch.Ad
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- Be sure that you don't leave too much of a stub where you cut your branches. When a stub dies, an opening is left that can become infested with insects that will harm your tree.
- Seal your tree's wounds with black spray paint to avoid oak wilt.
- Although most species can be pruned from late June through October, be sure to check with your local arborist or nursery, or consult garden books or online sources, for the best time of year to prune your particular species of oak.
- Be sure to use safety straps to tie yourself to the tree instead of using a ladder while doing your trimming.
- Never try to trim very heavy branches or limbs without the help of a professional.
- Trees that are let to grow without pruning can develop wounds from its branches and limbs rubbing against each other. These wounds can attract insects that can damage the tree.
- Always wear protective clothing such as gloves, lined chaps, eye and ear protection and a hard hat or other sturdy head covering. Shirts with long sleeves are a good idea, even in summer heat, to protect your skin from abrasions and insects.
- If using a chain saw, it's a good idea to take a class to learn how to use it and safety tips for its use.
- Be sure that any large branches that you are planning to remove can be secured away from where you are situated in the tree to avoid injury from the branch falling on or hitting you or someone on the ground.
Things You'll Need
- Oak tree
- Chain saw or tree-cutting extension saw
- Long-sleeved shirt, gloves, boots, hard hat or comparable headgear, safety goggles and ear plugs
- Ladder, safety ropes and harnesses
- Wound sealer or black paint
- Paint cleaner
- Paper towels or shop rags
- Small container for sealer or paint (that can be easily toted up the tree)
Categories: Growing Trees and Shrubs
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