Pruning

Ornamental Shrub Pruning

We prune flowering and evergreen shrubs to maintain natural form while controlling size. Techniques vary by plant type—some shrubs flower on new wood, others on old wood, requiring different approaches and timing. We also rejuvenate overgrown shrubs through selective thinning or gradual renewal pruning.

Tree Pruning and Trimming

For small to medium trees, we provide structural pruning, crown thinning (selective branch removal to reduce density), crown raising (removing lower branches for clearance), and deadwood removal. We never top trees—this outdated practice ruins structure and creates hazards.

Fruit Tree Pruning

Fruit trees require specialized pruning to maximize production while maintaining manageable size. We prune for open centers or central leaders (depending on species), train young trees for strong structure, and remove water sprouts, suckers, and crossing branches.

Hedge Maintenance

We maintain formal hedges with precise shearing and informal hedges with selective pruning. Proper hedge pruning creates density while maintaining the narrower top and wider base needed for even light distribution.

Seasonal Pruning

Different plants require pruning at specific times:

• Late winter/early spring: Most trees and summer-flowering shrubs
• After flowering: Spring-flowering shrubs (to preserve next year's blooms)
• Summer: Light pruning to control growth and remove problem branches
• Fall: Generally avoided (except deadwood removal) to prevent stimulating new growth before winter

Safety Pruning

We remove hazardous dead branches, correct weak branch attachments, clear branches from structures and power lines, and improve sightlines at intersections and driveways.