Raising tree skirts is an essential part of pruning trees. It involves strategically cutting away branches and dead wood to allow more light and air to reach the lower parts of the tree, as well as encouraging new growth.
That’s why Westcoast Tree Experts would like to look at what it means to raise a tree skirt when pruning, why it is important, and how to go about doing it correctly. With these Grass Valley tree care tips, you’ll be better equipped to help ensure your trees remain healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
What Does it Mean to Raise Tree Skirts?
Raising tree skirts is the process of thinning lower branches and dead wood from the bottom of a tree to create a ‘skirt’ effect.
This encourages more light and air to reach the lower parts of the tree, helping it remain healthy with better growth. It also helps in reducing overcrowding among branches and allows more sun to reach the tree’s root system.
It is important to note that this practice should only be used on trees that have reached maturity. On younger trees, raising skirts can stunt their natural development by taking away vital nutrients or sunlight needed for growth.
However, once established, older trees may benefit from having their skirts raised as a part of regular pruning and maintenance cycles.
Why is This Important?
Raising a tree’s skirt is an important part of proper pruning and maintenance. It allows more light and air to reach the lower parts of the tree, which can be beneficial for reducing overcrowding among branches as well as encouraging better growth.
Additionally, it can help improve air circulation around the tree and reduce disease risks, particularly in wetter climates where moisture tends to collect around the base of trees.
How is This Process Done?
Raising tree skirts is a relatively simple process that can be done with the use of secateurs, loppers or small handsaws. Generally, lower branches should be cut away first, starting at the very bottom of the trunk before working your way up.
The aim is to create an open and even space around the base of the tree while still preserving its overall shape. When removing branches, always look for signs of disease, as diseased branches may be best left alone until they can be adequately treated by a Grass Valley tree care professional.
To check that you are getting complete coverage, try standing back and viewing the tree from all angles to ensure there are no gaps or unevenness in the skirt. Smaller trees can be pruned using the same technique, except instead of cutting off large branches, you should focus on removing excess foliage from lower branches.
After all the trimming has been done, it’s essential to check for any signs of pests or diseases that may have been brought about by the pruning process. Finally, don’t forget to add a layer of mulch to the area surrounding your tree – this will help keep weeds away and retain moisture in the soil.
It’s Best to Hire a Professional to Do the Work
Although it might seem easy to raise a tree skirt yourself, it is best to leave the work to a professional. Tree pruning can be an intricate and delicate process; even slight mistakes can damage or stunt your tree’s growth.
Hiring a Grass Valley tree care professional will ensure that your trees get the proper care they need without any risk of damaging them. An arborist will inspect the trees first before proceeding with any pruning activity and offer advice on how best to maintain their health and vigor.
The right kind of pruning will depend on various factors such as species, location, size, age, and condition of trees. An expert has the knowledge needed to identify what type of pruning is best for each tree and will be able to conduct the job with skill and precision.
Not only can a professional arborist raise skirts on your trees, but they can also remove dead and dangerous branches, shape them for better aesthetic appeal, or maximize their fruiting potential.
Professional pruning services also include monitoring and preventive care that can help protect your trees from diseases and pests.
Contact Westcoast Tree Experts Today!
If you would like to learn more about raising tree skirts and the other pruning services we offer, don’t hesitate to contact WestCoast Tree Experts today. Our team of experienced arborists is ready to help with any tree care needs you may have.
We provide free consultations and estimates so that you can make an informed decision on how best to take care of your trees. Contact us by filling out our online form or give us a call at 1.800.767.8733 for more information.
