Dothan
Tree Service
Hi, I’m Josh Charkinsky, and I’ve been working in tree care since I was a teenager, just out of high school. At Dothan Tree Service, we know how important it is to keep trees healthy, safe, and beautiful. One of the best ways to do that is through proper pruning. Done the right way, pruning helps trees grow strong and stay free of disease, but when done wrong, it can harm the tree or even shorten its lifespan.
I want to share with you the five rules of pruning that I follow every day. These are simple guidelines, but they make a big difference in how trees respond to pruning.
1. Know Why You're Pruning
Before you pick up any tools, ask yourself why the tree needs pruning. Are you removing dead or diseased branches? Shaping the tree for appearance? Preventing safety hazards?
Every cut you make affects the tree’s growth and health, so it’s important to have a clear goal. For example, if a branch is weak or damaged, removing it helps the tree focus its energy on healthy growth. If branches are growing too close to a house or power line, pruning keeps the area safe.
Pruning without a purpose can stress the tree and cause unnecessary damage. Always have a plan in mind.
2. Prune at the Right Time
Timing is everything when it comes to pruning. Most trees do best when pruned during their dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring. At this time, the tree isn’t actively growing, so it can heal faster, and you can better see the tree’s structure without all the leaves in the way.
There are exceptions, though. For instance, if a branch is broken or diseased, it’s best to remove it right away, no matter the season. Here in Dothan, our warm, humid climate can also lead to rapid growth, so light pruning during the growing season might be needed to control overgrowth.
3. Use the Right Tools
Having the right tools makes pruning safer and more effective. For smaller branches, I use hand pruners or loppers. For larger branches, a pruning saw is better. Make sure your tools are sharp because clean cuts heal faster and are less likely to attract pests or diseases.
I always disinfect my tools when working with diseased branches to prevent spreading problems from one tree to another. A quick wipe with rubbing alcohol can make a big difference.
If you’re dealing with very large branches or a tall tree, leave the job to a professional. Safety should always come first.
4. Make Clean, Proper Cuts
The way you make a cut matters. A bad cut can leave the tree vulnerable to pests, disease, or decay. The general rule is to cut just outside the branch collar—the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk or another branch. This spot has the cells the tree needs to heal the wound naturally.
Never leave stubs or tear the bark, as this can damage the tree further. Also, avoid cutting too close to the trunk, as this can
remove the branch collar and slow down the healing process.
5. Don't Overdo It
One of the most common mistakes I see is over-pruning. Removing too much of a tree at once can shock it, leaving it unable to produce enough energy to stay healthy. A good rule of thumb is to never remove more than 25% of the tree’s canopy in a single session.
Here in Dothan, where storms can be common, people sometimes want to prune heavily to prevent damage. While it’s important to address weak or dangerous branches, over-pruning can make the tree more vulnerable to wind damage in the long run.
Pruning is about balance—taking just enough to help the tree without weakening it.
Final Thoughts on Pruning
Pruning is both an art and a science. Following these five rules helps trees grow stronger, live longer, and look their best. If you’re unsure about pruning or have a tree with serious issues, don’t hesitate to call us at Dothan Tree Service.
Caring for trees is what we do, and we’re here to help you keep your property safe and beautiful. Whether it’s advice on pruning or professional tree care services, you can count on us.
Thanks for reading.
- Josh Charkinsky
DO YOU NEED Tree Service?
Get in touch with Dothan Tree Service at 334-589-5947!