I have a red maple and a linden that needs to be have lower limbs trimmed. Since I cannot afford to hire a professional, I must try to do this myself. How do I know which of the lower limbs to trim and those that should stay.

Reply to post by P King, on July 30, 2000 at 13:24:42:

Check out these links:

http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG0628.html


http://www.ci.huntsville.al.us/Landscape/Trees/UFSubpageBiolDefense.htm

Reply to post by P King, on July 30, 2000 at 13:24:42:

Your question doesn't come with many details about the situation. So, I'll offer some general thoughts in reply.
To start, I'd not touch anything that I couldn't remove safely. Then I'd make sure I had a clear idea of why I want the limbs removed, or why I think it would benefit the tree. If clearance is my main objective, I would consider whether branches could be shortened or lightened, using thinning cuts. If it was necessary to remove whole branches, I would identify the branch collars and make cuts just outside that part, making sure to avoid tearing bark on the remaining portion. I would usually try to time the pruning for the late dormant period, or possibly around early summer after the leaves have fully formed. It always helps to ask before each cut, "Is this necessary or what is the purpose of this cut?" On a priority basis, I would remove 1)dead and broken, 2)weak or poorly attached, 3)in the way. If the trees are small, and training the form and structure is the issue, you would do well to research that topic. There is plenty of reading material on the internet and in print.

Reply to post by Mark Goodwin, on July 30, 2000 at 13:24:42:

I am manly intrested in the proper procedure to follow triming white and red oak. also what is the best time of year to trim oaks?