The Biggest Mistakes Homeowners Make When Trimming Their Trees
Kelsey T. • September 18, 2020
Maintaining trees in a way that allows property to be protected is something most homeowners value and do on their own from time to time. Consistent trimming and pruning will allow the tree to live longer by preventing disease caused from dead tree limbs. Continuing to trim improperly will harm the tree more than it will benefit it. This post will go over some of the biggest tree care no-no's that are seen all too often throughout the world.
Slicing Through the Branch Collar
It is important to outline what the branch collar is before diving into the details. The branch collar is the closest part of the branch that shares itself with the base of the tree. It is composed of vascular tissue which will release sap if it is cut into. The wound caused by it will take a long time to heal and can lead to infection throughout the tree. The reason this mistake occurs so often is because people who try to cut the limbs themselves will often try to cut limb so that it is flush with the trunk of the tree. Doing so will remove or damage the branch collar, causing complications. The best way to trim a tree limb is to leave the branch collar unaltered by leaving at least a one inch nub from the branch and the base of the tree.
Transferring Disease
Like their human counterparts, trees can receive transferable diseases through various forms of bacteria and fungal spores. The most common vehicle that these spores travel on is through un-sanitized sheers used on other trees. A simple method that goes a long way in tree health is to simply disinfect shears between trees. This will kill any unwanted parasites on the blades and keep the disease from transferring.
On a side note, keeping the foot of the tree clear of any fallen branches, foliage, or debris will also ensure that disease can harbor near the root system. When trimming a tree, make sure that the pile of removed limbs are kept away from the root system or completely disposed of.
Using Unsharpened Shears
Hacking a tree with aged or dull scissors can cause complications down the line for the branch collar. Having to cut multiple times on a branch will take longer for the tree to heal. These serrated wounds will open up an entry point for rot and disease to enter into. If trimming your own trees, invent in a set of lopping shears that sharp enough to chop through branches with ease. Getting old shears sharpened is another option as well.
Cutting the Wrong Tree Branch
Cutting away to many branches can cause the base to weaken overtime and disform as a result of over-pruning. As a rule of thumb, analyze the tree in question and remove dead or decaying branches before moving onto any other limbs. Branches that form a V-shaped angle are candidates for removal after the dead limbs are removed. From this point, it is important to assess the status of the tree and decide whether or not to continue cutting. If needed, remove smaller branches first before chopping off larger limbs.
Trimming at an Improper Time or Season
Certain species of trees are best to be left alone as certain times of the year. The bleeding sap from an exposed limb can attract petulant insects which can then spread disease throughout the tree or take it to other trees. This can also cause the bloom of fruit or foliage to be impeded or stopped completely. Late winter is often the best time for trimming for trees to do not bloom. For those that do bloom, it is best practice to wait until the tree has stopped blooming to prune. Throughout the year, dead limbs can be removed whenever they might occur.
If you have any questions about taking care of trees the right way, make sure to call our licensed arborist for all of your tree care questions. We have the proper knowledge of Colorado native trees and can consult and advice in tree care practices.
Taking care of your property can be a rewarding experience. Mowing the lawn, planting flowers, and even doing some light pruning are satisfying tasks that enhance your home's curb appeal. However, when it comes to tree care, there’s a point where the DIY spirit should give way to professional expertise. A trim that seems straightforward can quickly become dangerous or damage the long-term health of your trees. While a small trim on a young shrub might be a simple weekend task, tackling large branches, tall trees, or limbs near power lines is a different challenge entirely. At Aurora Tree Service, we specialize in handling the tree trimming jobs that are too difficult, too high, or too hazardous for homeowners to manage on their own. Understanding when to put down the loppers and call a professional is key to ensuring your safety and the vitality of your landscape. Why Professional Trimming is a Necessity, Not a Luxury Many homeowners underestimate the complexity and risk involved in tree trimming. It’s not just about cutting branches; it’s about understanding tree biology, assessing structural integrity, and using specialized equipment safely and effectively. Hiring a professional is an investment in your property's safety, beauty, and health. 1. The Unseen Dangers of DIY Tree Trimming According to the Tree Care Industry Association, tree care is one of the most hazardous professions. Homeowners attempting to do this work themselves with consumer-grade tools face even greater risks. The most common dangers include: Falls from Ladders: Unstable ladders are a leading cause of serious injury for homeowners. A ladder placed on uneven ground or one that isn't tall enough can easily lead to a devastating fall. Falling Branches: Misjudging the weight and fall path of a branch can have catastrophic consequences. Large limbs can crash onto your roof, your car, or a person below. Electrocution: Any tree work near power lines is extremely dangerous. Electricity can arc from the line to a tool or a branch, causing severe injury or death. This is a job that should only be handled by qualified professionals. Improper Tool Use: Chainsaws and other power tools are effective but unforgiving. Without proper training and safety gear, a simple kickback can cause a life-altering injury. 2. Protecting the Long-Term Health of Your Trees Trimming is more than just aesthetics; it's a critical aspect of tree healthcare. An improper cut can harm a tree more than it helps. Professional arborists, like the team at Aurora Tree Service, are trained to make cuts that promote healthy growth and healing. Avoiding Bad Cuts: A "flush cut" (cutting too close to the trunk) or leaving a "stub" (cutting too far out) can prevent the tree from properly sealing its wound. This invites pests, disease, and decay that can weaken or kill the tree over time. Preventing Over-Pruning: Removing too much of a tree's canopy at once—a common DIY mistake—can stress the tree, reduce its ability to photosynthesize, and leave it vulnerable to sunscald and disease. Timing is Everything: Trimming at the wrong time of year can interfere with a tree's flowering cycle or expose fresh cuts to seasonal pests and fungi. We know the optimal trimming schedule for different species in our area to maximize health and beauty. 3. Enhancing Your Property's Aesthetics and Value A professionally trimmed tree is a beautiful tree. We don't just remove branches; we shape the tree to enhance its natural form and improve its appearance on your property. Proper trimming can increase sun exposure for your lawn and other plants, improve your view, and significantly boost your home’s curb appeal and overall value. When to Call Aurora Tree Service: The Telltale Signs If you find yourself in any of the following situations, it’s a clear sign that the job requires professional expertise. Your Trees Are Too Tall or Hard to Reach If you can't reach a branch with both feet planted firmly on the ground, it's time to call us. Our team is equipped with aerial lifts, professional climbing gear, and rigging systems that allow us to safely access the highest parts of your trees. We can navigate complex canopies and work around obstacles without ever relying on a shaky ladder. Don't risk a fall—let us handle the work at height. You Have Dead or Hazardous Branches Dead, broken, or hanging branches are ticking time bombs. They can fall at any moment, especially during a storm or high winds. Identifying these hazardous limbs, known as "widow-makers," requires a trained eye. We can spot signs of decay and weakness that may not be obvious from the ground. Our team will safely rig and remove these dangerous branches before they can cause damage to your property or harm to your family. Branches Are Growing Near Power Lines This is a non-negotiable situation. Never attempt to trim any branch that is near or touching a power line. The risk of electrocution is simply too high. Aurora Tree Service has certified professionals who are trained and qualified to work safely around utility lines. We follow strict safety protocols to ensure the job is done without incident. The Job Requires a Chainsaw from a Ladder If your trimming plan involves using a chainsaw while standing on a ladder, please stop immediately and call a professional. This is one of the most dangerous scenarios a homeowner can create. It combines the instability of a ladder with the power and unpredictability of a chainsaw. Our team uses secure climbing techniques or aerial lifts to establish stable working positions, ensuring that power tools can be operated with precision and control. You Need to Remove Large, Heavy Limbs Removing a large limb is a complex process involving physics and careful planning. You need to predict how the branch will fall and control its descent to avoid damage. Our crew uses specialized rigging techniques, including ropes and pulleys, to safely lower heavy sections of wood to the ground in a controlled manner. This prevents damage to your home, fences, and landscaping below. The Professional Process at Aurora Tree Service When you call us for help, you get more than just a tree trimmer; you get a partner in tree care. Our process is built on safety, expertise, and clear communication. Consultation and Assessment: We start by visiting your property to assess the trees in question. We listen to your goals and provide an expert evaluation of your trees' health and structure. A Clear Plan: We will explain exactly what needs to be done and why. We’ll outline our plan for safely trimming the trees and provide you with a detailed, transparent estimate. Safe and Efficient Execution: On the day of the job, our certified and insured crew arrives with professional-grade equipment. We execute the trimming plan with precision, always prioritizing the safety of our team and your property. Thorough Cleanup: We believe in leaving a property cleaner than we found it. Our team will chip and haul away all debris, rake the area, and ensure your yard is left neat and tidy. Invest in Safety and the Health of Your Trees Your trees are a valuable asset, but they can also be a significant liability if not properly managed. When a trimming job feels too big, too high, or too risky, it almost certainly is. Don’t gamble with your safety or the health of your trees. Let the experts at Aurora Tree Service provide the professional care your trees deserve. We have the training, equipment, and insurance to handle the most challenging tree trimming jobs, giving you peace of mind and beautiful, healthy trees for years to come. Is there a tree on your property that’s out of your reach? Contact Aurora Tree Service today for a free consultation and let our professionals handle the job safely and effectively!
Whether in a home landscape, public park, urban development, or natural forest, watching trees mature and thrive is a rewarding experience. We plant and nurture trees with hopes of rapid growth for shade, beauty, or ecosystem benefits. But what if a tree seems to be barely changing from year to year? Sometimes, this may signal a problem, but often it simply means you have a slow-growing tree—one of nature’s most resilient and valuable assets. Understanding the growth rate of the trees in your environment is important for proper care and long-term planning. At Aurora Tree Service, our certified arborists specialize in tree identification and health assessments. We help property owners, land managers, and caretakers distinguish between a tree that is under stress and one that is simply growing at its natural, unhurried pace. This guide explores the world of slow-growing trees and explains how our expertise can help these sturdy specimens thrive for generations. The Difference Between Slow Growth and Poor Health A common concern we hear is, "Is my tree healthy? It hasn't grown much." It's a valid question, and not just for homeowners—this applies to trees in commercial settings, city streets, restoration projects, or any managed landscape. Stunted growth can signal issues like soil compaction, nutrient deficiencies, pests, or disease. However, many tree species are genetically programmed for slow growth. A certified arborist from Aurora Tree Service can expertly determine the cause of your tree's growth rate. Our comprehensive tree health assessment considers: Species Identification: We always start by identifying the tree species. For example, an American Hornbeam will naturally grow much slower than a Lombardy Poplar, regardless of location. Knowing what type of tree you have sets the baseline for expected growth. Site and Soil Analysis: We examine the surrounding environment—whether in a backyard, park, street verge, or business complex. Is the soil compacted or poor quality? Is there consistent irrigation or seasonal drought? We test soil pH and nutrient levels to eliminate environmental factors that might restrict growth. Pest and Disease Inspection: Detailed inspections can reveal if a tree is suffering from disease or pests—problems that can affect city trees, rural plantings, or specimen trees in any setting. Structural Evaluation: We assess the tree’s structure, foliage health, and bud development. A healthy, slow-growing tree will still show signs of vibrant foliage and new bud growth each year, whether it's on a campus lawn or in a natural woodland. By distinguishing between natural slow growth and a health problem, we provide clarity and a targeted care plan. The Hidden Advantages of Slow-Growing Trees In a fast-paced world, slow growth in trees is often viewed as a drawback. In reality, slow-growing trees shine in settings ranging from urban streetscapes to reforestation projects or botanical gardens. Increased Strength and Density Fast-growing species—like Silver Maple or Willow—often produce less dense, more brittle wood. This can lead to breakage during storms or heavy winds, making them less ideal in high-traffic or public spaces. Slow-growing trees invest energy into forming denser, stronger wood, resulting in greater resilience and a lower risk of storm damage, splitting limbs, or structural failure. Oaks, Hickories, and Ginkgoes exemplify this durable nature. Enhanced Longevity The “live fast, die young” principle often applies to trees. Many rapid growers may survive only a few decades, while slow-growers such as White Oak can persist for centuries, becoming living landmarks in parks, campuses, or city centers. Choosing slow-growing trees is an investment in the legacy and long-term vitality of any project or greenspace. Lower Maintenance Requirements With their measured growth, slow-growing trees generally require less frequent pruning and intervention, whether they line a city street, anchor a landscaped courtyard, or thrive in a nature preserve. Their strong branching structure and predictable growth habits reduce maintenance costs and labor for managers and caretakers. Popular Slow-Growing Trees for Various Settings Many beautiful and desirable trees fall into the slow-growing category. Our experts at Aurora Tree Service can help you identify if you have one of these remarkable trees on your property—be it residential, commercial, or municipal—or recommend options for new plantings. Oak Trees (Quercus species): Many oak varieties, like White Oak and Bur Oak, are emblematic slow-growers that become impressive, shade-giving trees in parks, campuses, or large estates. American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana): Resilient and adaptable, the American Hornbeam is ideal for both private gardens and public spaces, valued for its dense form. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba): With distinct fan-shaped leaves and robust disease resistance, Ginkgo makes a striking addition to avenues, plazas, and arboretums. Dogwood (Cornus florida): Known for beautiful spring flowers and four-season appeal, Dogwoods are perfect for parks, courtyards, and curated gardens. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): Ideal for ornamental beds, courtyards, or wherever size control is needed, most varieties offer slow, steady growth and stunning foliage. How Aurora Tree Service Helps Your Trees Thrive Whether your tree is a naturally slow grower or is struggling in any managed environment, our team delivers the expert care needed for its long-term health. Our tailored maintenance plans can include: Proper Pruning: Structural pruning to encourage strong branching, ideal for trees in public parks, along roadways, or in residential developments. Soil and Root Care: Improving root health and soil conditions in compacted or constructed environments, whether in cityscapes or planned communities. Deep Root Fertilization: Targeted nutrient delivery for trees in stressed soils—beneficial in urban, campus, or commercial plantings. Mulching: Advising and applying best mulching practices to reduce environmental stress, conserve moisture, and promote resilience. Partner with an Expert for Healthy, Lasting Trees Patience pays when it comes to trees. Slow-growing species are often the backbone of healthy, lasting landscapes in all types of environments. By partnering with Aurora Tree Service, you gain a team equipped to support trees wherever they grow—home gardens, public grounds, new developments, or historic sites. We remove the guesswork from tree care, supporting a legacy of beauty, strength, and longevity that benefits everyone. Don't guess about your tree's growth or needs. Let our certified arborists provide a professional assessment and clear care plan for your trees, wherever they're rooted. Want to ensure the trees in your care grow strong and healthy? Contact Aurora Tree Service today for a professional consultation and help your slow-growing trees reach their fullest potential! Meta Information Meta Title: Slow-Growing Trees: A Guide | Aurora Tree Service Meta Description: Is your tree growing slowly? Aurora Tree Service helps identify slow-growing species and provides expert care to ensure their health and longevity in any setting.
Planting a new tree is an act of optimism. It’s an investment in the future beauty, shade, and value of your property. But for that investment to pay off, timing is everything. In a climate like ours in Aurora, Colorado, with its hot, dry summers and cold, unpredictable winters, planting a tree at the wrong time of year can set it up for failure. A sapling planted in the peak of summer heat will struggle to establish roots, while one planted too late in the fall may not have enough time to acclimate before the ground freezes. So, when is the perfect time to plant? The answer isn't a single date on the calendar; it's a window of opportunity determined by a combination of factors including species, weather patterns, and soil conditions. This is where professional guidance becomes invaluable. At Aurora Tree Service, our certified arborists have a deep understanding of the local climate and horticulture. We help homeowners navigate the complexities of planting schedules to ensure their new trees don't just survive—they thrive from day one. Why Planting Time Matters So Much A newly planted tree is incredibly vulnerable. It has just been moved from a controlled nursery environment to a new, often challenging, location. During this transition, the tree experiences what is known as "transplant shock." Its primary goal is to establish a strong root system to absorb water and nutrients. The timing of this process directly impacts its ability to do so successfully. The Dangers of Summer Planting Planting a tree in the middle of a hot, dry Colorado summer (typically June through August) forces it to fight a battle on two fronts. It needs energy to grow new roots, but it must also expend significant resources to produce leaves and combat water loss through transpiration under the intense sun. This immense stress makes the tree more susceptible to pests, diseases, and outright failure. Supplemental watering becomes a constant, demanding chore. The Risks of Winter Planting Planting when the ground is frozen or near freezing is generally not feasible. The roots cannot penetrate the hard soil to anchor themselves or access water. Even if you manage to plant during a warm spell in winter, the subsequent freeze-thaw cycles can damage the delicate new roots and even heave the young tree out of the ground. This leaves two optimal windows for planting in the Aurora area: spring and fall. Each has its own distinct advantages. The Spring Planting Window: A Season of Growth Spring is a time of vigorous growth, making it a very popular and effective time to plant new trees. As the soil warms up and moisture from winter snowmelt is still present, conditions are ideal for root development. Advantages of Spring Planting Full Growing Season: A tree planted in the spring has the entire spring and summer to establish its root system before facing the stress of its first winter. Active Growth: The tree is naturally in a growth phase, channeling energy into producing new roots, branches, and leaves. Wider Availability: Nurseries are typically fully stocked in the spring, offering the widest selection of tree species and sizes. The Ideal Spring Timing The key to successful spring planting is to wait until after the last hard frost but before the intense heat of summer sets in. In Aurora, this window is typically from late April to early June . Planting during this period gives the tree several weeks of moderate temperatures and reliable moisture to begin establishing itself. The Fall Planting Window: The Arborist's Choice While spring is popular, many arborists consider fall to be the superior planting season for most trees in Colorado. The logic is simple: in the fall, the tree can focus all its energy on one critical task—root growth. Advantages of Fall Planting Focus on Roots: As the air cools, deciduous trees stop trying to produce leaves and instead direct their energy below ground. This allows them to develop a robust root system before winter dormancy. Warm Soil: The soil remains warm from the summer sun, which encourages rapid root expansion. Reduced Water Stress: Cooler temperatures and shorter days mean the tree loses less water through its leaves, reducing the risk of transplant shock and the need for constant watering. Winter Hardening: A fall-planted tree has months to acclimate. When spring arrives, it has a head start with a partially established root system, ready to support a vigorous flush of new growth. The Ideal Fall Timing The best time for fall planting in Aurora is from early September to mid-October . This allows about six to eight weeks for root establishment before the ground freezes solid. You want to avoid planting too late, as a tree planted in November may not have enough time to anchor itself before winter arrives. How Aurora Tree Service Ensures Perfect Timing Choosing the right season is just the beginning. The experts at Aurora Tree Service provide a comprehensive consultation to pinpoint the perfect planting strategy for your specific property and chosen tree. 1. Species-Specific Guidance Different trees have different preferences. Some, like bare-root trees or certain evergreens, perform best when planted in early spring. Others, like many balled-and-burlapped deciduous trees, thrive with fall planting. Our arborists know the ideal timing for hundreds of species that grow well in our region, removing the guesswork for you. 2. Microclimate and Soil Assessment Your yard has its own unique conditions. We analyze your property's specific microclimate, considering factors like: Sun Exposure: A south-facing spot that gets baked by the sun may have a different ideal planting window than a cooler, shaded north-facing location. Soil Temperature and Moisture: We assess your soil to determine when it has warmed up enough in the spring or how long it retains warmth in the fall. We can test soil moisture to ensure conditions are right for new roots. Drainage: Well-drained soil warms up faster than heavy, clay soil. We factor this into our timing recommendations. 3. Weather Monitoring and Flexible Scheduling Weather in Colorado is anything but predictable. An early heatwave in May or a sudden cold snap in October can impact planting success. We don't just follow a calendar; we monitor short- and long-term forecasts. Our team remains flexible, scheduling your planting service when the weather conditions are genuinely optimal for your new tree, not just when it's convenient. 4. Professional Planting and Aftercare Plan Once the perfect time arrives, our job is to give your tree the best possible start. Our professional planting services ensure the hole is dug to the correct depth and width, the root ball is prepared properly, and the soil is backfilled to eliminate air pockets. Crucially, we provide you with a clear, customized watering and care plan. A tree planted in the fall has different watering needs than one planted in the spring. Our guidance will help you manage the critical first year of establishment, ensuring your investment flourishes for decades to come. Plant for Success with Expert Timing A beautiful, healthy tree adds immense value and enjoyment to your home, but its long-term success begins the moment it goes into the ground. Don't leave this critical decision to chance. By partnering with the experts at Aurora Tree Service, you gain access to decades of local horticultural knowledge, ensuring you plant the right tree at the perfect time. Set your new tree up for a long and healthy life. Let our certified arborists help you create a planting plan that works with Colorado's unique climate, not against it. Ready to add a new tree to your landscape? Contact Aurora Tree Service today for a professional consultation on planting, timing, and tree selection! Meta Information Meta Title: Best Time to Plant Trees in Aurora, CO | Aurora Tree Service Meta Description: When should you plant trees in Aurora? Our expert arborists help you choose the perfect time in spring or fall to ensure your new trees thrive.