A Guide on How to Remove Dead Tree Branches

The removal of dead tree branches ensures the healthy growth of your tree, as well as gives your tree a lush look. You can either remove the dead branches by yourself or opt for tree service for a more professional outcome. 

Now, trimming or pruning your tree may seem like an easy task. But it, in fact, requires much caution and skill. There are always chances of damaging your tree in your attempt of trimming the tree, and you might injure yourself too. 

Wondering how to remove dead tree branches? Go through this article to get a step-by-step guide on easily and efficiently trimming and pruning your tree.

The Proper Method of Removing Dead Tree Branches

Identifying the dead branches

You cannot just get some tools and start trimming the tree. First, take your time to thoroughly inspect which branches need to be chopped off and from which point should they be cut. Remember, you are also promoting growth from the tip that you are trimming.

You can initially start by marking the branches that do not have any leaves. Another good way of identifying the dead branches is by scratching them a bit with your nails. If the branch is totally brown and crisped, then chop it off. But if you see at least some green tints under the bark, then the branch can be saved. 
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While examining the tree, check for any fungal and pest infestations. If you notice the presence of fungi or pests on a branch, immediately cut it off to stop the spread.

Making the cuts

There are specific ways of making the cuts practiced by arborists. Since callous tissues appear on the cut points to heal the wounds, you need to be extra careful about not causing shock to your tree.  Some commonly used cuts are as follows:

• Underside cut:

First, select a dead branch that is situated at least two to three feet away from the trunk of your tree. Make about a 1/4th inch cut starting from the underside of that branch. This cut prevents any split barks and makes the cutting ends smoother.

• Relief cut:

You will cut the outer curve of the branch right after performing the underside cut, and this is called the relief. This cut ensures the safety of the trunk.

• Final cut:

Finally, you will cut on the collar of the branch. This is a crucial step because you cannot remove the collar itself. If you accidentally do cut off the collar, the entire tree might start to rot.
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So, start cutting smoothly from either the bottom or the top of the branch, and move inwards. Do not leave long and sharp stubs of the branches, as this will stunt the growth of upcoming branches. ​

Using the right tools

There are absolutely no alternatives to using the proper equipment for trimming your tree. The smoother and faster the cut is, the better it is for the overall health of your tree. 

There are specialized pruning saws for removing thinner and thicker branches. Getting one of these will make your task much easier. Also, make sure to disinfect the saws before and after pruning each tree. 

The Importance of Trimming Trees

You might wonder why gardeners choose the hassle of trimming the dead branches. These are the reasons why-

• Dead tree branches are burdens to the rest of the tree- as simple as that. By trimming the dead branches you can let the rest of the tree reach its full potential. 
  
• Trimming large trees ensures the safety of your people and properties. We all are familiar with the destruction caused by fallen trees during storms.
  
• Removing the dead branches makes the tree looks greener and livelier. You might also chop off some extra branches to give your tree your desired shape. 
  
• Dead branches may contain some diseases, and you can stop their spread by cutting them.
  

As important as it is to regularly prune and trim your trees, following the wrong methods of removing dead branches can be hazardous. Removing the healthy branches, lion tails or the peak of your tree can cause the entire condition of the tree to deteriorate. 
The method mentioned in this article has been widely used by tree care professionals, and mastering this will only bring benefits to you and your tree. So, practice the method and keep your garden fresher, greener and livelier!