Pruning Arvorvitae
Grayslake, IL
Arborvitaes will retain their natural shape as they mature, and regular pruning usually isn’t necessary. They will tolerate more frequent and heavier pruning if shaped into formal hedges and topiaries. Follow these tips for best results:
Give arborvitaes a light pruning in early spring to keep them tidy and encourage thicker growth.
New growth only develops from the leafy part of a branch, don’t cut back to bare wood.
Maintain the natural shape of your arborvitae—wider at the bottom than the top. If you prune it into a V shape, the lower branches will be shaded and the foliage may die back or become sparse.
Remove dead or diseased branches at the point where they leave the trunk. This will prevent decay and allow new growth to fill in the gaps.
Remove accumulated dead foliage inside the plant annually or more frequently to improve air circulation and reduce chance of disease.
Use selective pruning or thinning cuts to lower the height—don’t lop off the top of an arborvitae. No new growth will occur once the branch tips have been cut, and you’ll end up with a permanent buzz cut.
FAQ
Maintenance Tips
How much does it cost to remove a tree?
That is a tricky one. Like everything else, price is relative to and a reflection of the cost to the company. Each tree is unique and requires a unique approach. It is very hard to estimate the cost of a tree without seeing it and getting an idea of what is involved in the removal.
When is the best time to cut down a tree?
In general, the best time to cut down a tree is as soon as you notice it is a hazard. While you might want to wait – whether it is for a better season or a bigger paycheck – you shouldn’t. The longer a hazardous tree is in your yard, the bigger risk it becomes. Every windy day or bout of extreme weather weakens the tree and increases the risk that it falls and causes damage to your property.
If a tree has a disease like EAB, you will have to wait until the insects are less active (mid-late fall or early spring) to cut down the tree. The DNR has restrictions on when we are allowed to cut diseased trees in order to reduce the spread of the disease.
Do I have to be home for the removal process?
No. As long as you can provide us with access to the property, you do not need to be home for the process.
TREE TRIMMING
Benefits of Service
Improve the overall health of your trees
Allows you to detect any diseases before they advance
