Why Prune Your Trees?
Pruning is both corrective and preventive. It removes problems that already exist and heads off the ones that would show up in the next storm.
- Remove dead wood. Dead branches weigh the tree down, can break off and fall on people or property, and invite insects and disease.
- Thin crowded or crossing limbs. Removing selected live branches opens the crown and, depending on the species, can encourage healthy growth or slow it down.
- Reduce heavy limbs. Taking weight off long, heavy limbs lowers the chance they split in wind, snow or ice.
- Get ready for storm season. A well-pruned tree lets wind pass through so it can move with the weather instead of fighting it, a real advantage near the Jersey Shore.
- Let in more light. Thinning lets sunlight reach the lawn and garden underneath.
- Improve the look of your property. Like a good haircut, professional pruning gives the whole yard a lift.
Tree Trimming vs. Tree Pruning
People use the two words interchangeably, and both mean cutting branches. Pruning usually refers to selective cuts made for the tree’s health and structure, such as removing dead, diseased or crossing limbs. Trimming usually refers to shaping a tree or cutting back growth for clearance, such as branches over the roof, driveway, pool or walkway. Most of our jobs include a bit of both.
Common Tree Pruning Jobs
- Removing dead and broken branches from the crown
- Thinning dense crowns to reduce weight and wind resistance
- Cutting back limbs hanging over the house, roof, driveway or pool
- Reducing heavy limbs that are at risk of breaking
- Shaping trees for a cleaner, more balanced look
For hedges and shrubs, see hedge trimming. If a tree is too far gone for pruning to help, we’ll tell you and quote tree removal instead.
When Is the Best Time to Prune Trees?
Pruning can be done any time of year when it’s handled by someone who knows each species and how to approach it. It really depends on the results you want and the type of tree:
- Winter: the usual choice for fruit trees, and a good time to see a tree’s structure with the leaves off.
- Early spring: just before the period of rapid growth.
- After flowering: for trees that bloom in spring.
- Fall: after the summer heat, when there’s less stress on the tree.
Dead, broken or hazardous limbs shouldn’t wait for the season. Those can and should come off any time.
Tree Pruning FAQs
How often should trees be pruned?
It depends on the species, age and location of the tree. Many trees near homes do well with a check-up every few years, and young trees benefit from more frequent structural pruning. We’ll recommend a schedule for your trees at the estimate.
Will pruning hurt my tree?
Not when it’s done correctly. Proper cuts and the right amount of removal let the tree seal its wounds and stay healthy. Over-pruning and “topping” are what damage trees.
Can you trim branches hanging over my roof?
Yes. Cutting back limbs over roofs, gutters, driveways and pools is one of our most common requests.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. JBS Tree Experts is licensed and insured.
Areas We Serve
JBS Tree Experts is based in Toms River and works throughout Ocean and Monmouth County, including Toms River, Brick, Jackson, Howell, Point Pleasant, Freehold, Manalapan, Colts Neck, Middletown and the surrounding towns. Not sure if we cover your street? Call (732) 966-2273 and ask.
Other Tree Services
- Tree Removal
- Stump Grinding
- 24/7 Emergency Storm Cleanup
- Hedge Trimming & Removal
- Lot & Land Clearing
Get a Free Estimate
Call (732) 966-2273 or request a free estimate online. You can upload a photo with your request so we can see the job before we arrive. Estimates are free and there is no obligation.