How often should you trim your trees?

Arbor Day Foundation suggests pruning or trimming trees once per year during the dormant season, which can vary depending on the species of your tree. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, circumstances such as these may prompt an immediate trimming:

• The tree's growth obstructs visibility for pedestrians or vehicles, especially at intersections.

• The tree's limbs interfere with power lines. Make sure to contact your local utility company to handle the job, as it's simply too dangerous to even get close to power lines.

• The tree's growth may threaten your home or property. If you feel a tree needs to be pruned because it may cause damage to your home, or causes safety concerns, it's important to contact an arborist to help with the trimming.

HOW DO YOU SAFELY TRIM YOUR TREES?

The most important rule when cutting a tree, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is personal safety. The best way to help ensure safety is to hire an arborist to clip back your trees. Trimming may often require a ladder and sometimes puts the trimmer in close proximity to power lines, posing a potential danger. The safest course of action is to leave tree-trimming to a professional.

However, if you do decide to trim your own trees the USDA provides the following size guide to help you determine if it's safe or not to cut the branches:

• Branches smaller than 2 inches (or 5 centimeters) in diameter: Proceed.

• Branches between 2 and 4 inches (or 5 and 10 centimeters) in diameter: Think it over.

• Branches larger than 4 inches (or 10 centimeters): Contact an arborist.

Once again, if you have any doubt in your ability to properly assess the situation and conduct the pruning, call an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture. An arborist has experience and expertise, and can complete the job in a safe and fast manner.

Overall, yearly tree trimming may help keep your yard beautiful and safe for years to come.