Are you looking to revitalize the look of your lawn? A good place to start is your trees. They need thoughtful care to thrive and look their best. If you want to take your yard to the next level aesthetically, tree shaping can make all the difference. Here’s some ideas to consider.
Strategically Prune Your Branches
Pruning your trees is just as much of an art as it is a science. The most important thing to remember is to not overcut your trees. Pruning, or the removal of branches, should only be done every year to three years depending on the tree’s species, health, and age. If you decide to prune, examine your tree’s structure and avoid cutting foundational branches. Do not cut a branch that is a core part of your tree’s skeleton, or this can damage your tree long-term. Additionally, remove any dead or compromised branches to ensure that your tree grows to its full potential.
Trim Your Leaves Carefully
Trimming is the process of shaping your tree. Like pruning, you don’t want to trim your trees too often and it should be done with caution. Most trees can be trimmed once a year or every two to three years. The key with trimming is to give your tree a groomed appearance without overdoing it. Here are some helpful tips:
- Be careful how many leaves you cut, because cutting too much can impact your tree’s growth.
- Safety is of the essence. If you notice that your tree is growing too close to power lines or overhanging a sidewalk, it’s time to give your tree a good trim.
- Are some of your branches growing too close together? Trim them to ensure the bark doesn’t rub away, as the exposed soft wood underneath can attract pests.
- Make sure your tree has enough air circulation by trimming areas that are more full.
Be Creative
With tree shaping, you can be as creative as you’d like. Whether there’s a certain style you enjoy or you want to recreate a look you’ve seen in the past, there’s great flexibility with trimming. Before shaping a tree, inspect the tree. Look at its branch structure and how full it is. The main goal is to determine how much you should cut off and what areas to trim while maintaining the tree’s aesthetic appeal. Every tree species is different. Research your tree type and what trimming styles are recommended. Websites such Pinterest offer a variety of trimming guides and ideas.
Consider Lighting
If you have lights around your trees, be extra cautious when you trim. Shape your tree to take advantage of the lighting. Let your lights showcase your trees’ new look. Trim lightly and do not cut a lot of leaves. This can result in empty areas that can be clearly seen when illuminated. Making sure there’s plenty of foliage and neat branches can help you show off your tree and make your house look well-maintained.
Get Inspired
One of the best ways to find the perfect tree shape for your tree is to look for inspiration. Visit your local park or garden and walk around. Explore the trees surrounding you and see if a certain design speaks to you. It’s also helpful to visit loved ones or friends’ properties to get ideas. Getting the right inspiration can give you a clear picture of how you want your trees to look. Beyond giving your trees the typical rounded appearance, you can explore tree shaping techniques such as:
Topiary
The art of turning trees into living sculptures or shapes like spheres, cones, squares, spirals, and even animals.
Pollarding
This is a technique in which a tree is pruned extensively and the upper branches are cut to stubs.
Pleaching
This is when trees are planted together nearby to form a hedge or fence.
Consult With a Professional
A professional can help you design an aesthetically-pleasing shape that’s also healthy for your tree. You and your landscaping partner can brainstorm ideas and work together to give your trees the care they need and deserve. A qualified professional’s main goal is to bring your vision to life. Don’t hesitate to share what you want. If you have visual references of the style you like, be sure to show them to your landscaper.
Why Progressive Lawn & Landscaping?
Have you considered enhancing your trees’ appearance with trimming? Progressive Lawn & Landscaping has an experienced team of landscaping professionals who can guide you throughout the whole process. We’ll go over tree shaping designs with you and oversee your trimming project from start to finish. Our landscapers will ensure your trees are beautifully trimmed and that we exceed your expectations. We have years of expertise and will make sure the job is done right the first time.
Give Your Lawn A New Look
Have you noticed your trees are getting too full? Now’s the time to give your lawn a new, updated look. Tree shaping can increase your yard’s curbside appeal and make sure your trees remain healthy and thriving. Contact Progressive Lawn & Landscaping today to learn more about our tree trimming services and to receive a free quote.
