Tree Pruning Myths That Could Harm Your Landscape

August 20, 2025

Pruning is one of the most important aspects of tree care. When done correctly, it improves the health, safety, and appearance of your trees. However, when done poorly or based on incorrect assumptions, it can cause lasting damage. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often encounter homeowners who have heard common myths about pruning that could put their trees at risk. By understanding these misconceptions, you can make better choices for your landscape.

Myth 1: Topping a Tree Helps Control Growth

One of the most persistent myths is that topping, or cutting off the top of a tree, is a safe way to reduce height. In reality, topping severely damages the tree by removing its main branches and exposing large areas of bark. This leads to decay, weak regrowth, and in many cases, early tree death. The practice also increases the risk of falling limbs because the new shoots that emerge after topping are poorly attached. Proper crown reduction performed by a professional is a much safer and healthier way to manage tree size.

Myth 2: Trees Can Be Pruned at Any Time of Year

It may seem convenient to prune whenever you notice a branch that looks out of place, but timing matters. Pruning during the wrong season can stress the tree, leave it vulnerable to pests, or prevent it from healing properly. For most species, late winter or early spring is ideal because the tree is dormant, and wounds will heal quickly when growth resumes. Summer pruning can also be beneficial in certain cases, but it is always best to consult with professionals who know the growth cycles of different species.

Myth 3: Sealants Are Necessary After Every Cut

Decades ago, it was common practice to apply paint or tar to pruning cuts with the idea that it would prevent infection. Research has since shown that trees naturally form callus tissue to seal wounds, and adding chemicals can actually trap moisture and promote decay. The healthiest approach is to make clean cuts at the correct angle and allow the tree to heal naturally.

Myth 4: Removing Large Limbs Will Not Harm the Tree

Sometimes homeowners believe they can remove large branches without consequence. While it may seem like a simple fix, removing major limbs creates large wounds that are difficult for the tree to close. This leaves the tree open to pests and decay. If large branches truly must be removed, the cut should be made carefully to avoid tearing the bark, and the overall balance of the canopy should be preserved.

Myth 5: Pruning Encourages Faster Growth

Many assume that pruning stimulates growth in the same way trimming a hedge does. While pruning can redirect energy to other parts of the tree, excessive or improper cuts often stunt growth instead of encouraging it. Over-pruning removes the leaves that trees need for photosynthesis, limiting their ability to create energy. The result is often a weaker, less resilient tree.

The Right Way to Prune

Pruning is both a science and an art. It requires an understanding of tree biology, growth patterns, and structural integrity. Professional arborists use precise techniques to:

Remove diseased or damaged branches without stressing the tree
Improve air circulation and light penetration
Shape the tree while maintaining its natural form
Prevent hazards by eliminating weak or crossing branches

By trusting trained experts, you can ensure that your trees receive the care they need without the risks associated with common myths.

Why Professional Pruning Matters

DIY pruning may save money in the short term, but the long-term damage caused by improper cuts can be costly. Trees are valuable assets to your property, adding beauty, shade, and even increasing home value. Professional pruning protects that investment while reducing the risk of accidents or tree loss.

At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we approach every pruning project with precision and care. Our team understands the myths that often mislead homeowners and replaces them with proven practices that keep trees strong and landscapes thriving.

Final Thoughts

Tree pruning is essential, but it must be done correctly. By avoiding myths such as topping, unnecessary sealants, or year-round trimming, you can preserve the health and beauty of your trees. Partnering with experienced professionals ensures your landscape remains safe, vibrant, and ready to flourish for years to come.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Signs Your Trees May Not Survive the Winter Without Care

September 10, 2025

Fall is the season when homeowners begin preparing their properties for the cold months ahead. While many focus on sealing windows, checking heating systems, or cleaning gutters, tree care is often overlooked. Trees are resilient, but harsh winter conditions can expose hidden weaknesses. Without proper attention in the fall, some trees may not survive the cold, snow, and ice. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners recognize the warning signs that indicate a tree needs care before winter arrives.

The Environmental Benefits of Professional Tree Care

September 3, 2025

Trees are among the most valuable natural resources in our communities. They provide shade, improve air quality, and support wildlife. Yet many homeowners overlook the importance of professional tree care in preserving these benefits. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that taking care of trees is not only about maintaining curb appeal or preventing hazards, but also about protecting the environment. Professional tree care contributes directly to healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future.

Tree Preservation vs Tree Removal: Knowing When to Choose Each Option

August 29, 2025

Trees bring beauty, shade, and value to any property, but they also require careful attention to ensure they remain safe and healthy. Homeowners often face a difficult choice when a tree begins to show signs of stress or decline: should it be preserved, or is removal the safer and more responsible decision? At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that every tree deserves thoughtful evaluation before action is taken. Here is what you should know about deciding between preservation and removal.

The Difference Between Deadwood Pruning and Canopy Reduction

August 14, 2025

Not All Tree Trimming Is the Same At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often hear clients use the terms “pruning” and “trimming” as if they mean the same thing. While both involve removing branches from a tree, the purpose, timing, and results of different pruning techniques can vary significantly. Two of the most common approaches we use are deadwood pruning and canopy reduction. These services are not interchangeable, and knowing the difference can help you decide what your trees need to remain healthy, safe, and visually appealing.

How to Prepare Trees for Heavy Snowfall Before Winter Hits

August 7, 2025

Don’t Wait for a Fall As Midwest winters approach, homeowners face the annual challenge of protecting their property from extreme weather. While much attention is paid to snow removal and roof maintenance, trees often go overlooked until a limb crashes down or an entire tree topples under the weight of snow and ice. Proper tree preparation is essential not only for the health of your landscape but also for the safety of your home and family. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe proactive care is the best strategy for protecting your trees and avoiding costly damage during the winter months. Here is what you need to know.

How Tree Roots Can Affect Your Foundation and Plumbing

August 1, 2025

Protecting Your Property from Underground Damage Trees offer countless benefits: shade, privacy, curb appeal, and cleaner air. But when their roots grow unchecked, they can also become a costly threat to your property. For homeowners in the Midwest, root systems from mature or poorly placed trees can lead to serious damage below ground. Foundations can crack. Pipes can rupture. And what starts as a small root intrusion can quickly grow into a major headache. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we understand both the value of mature trees and the importance of protecting your home. Here is what you need to know about invasive roots and how to address them before they cause long-term damage.

How Invasive Plant Species Threaten Native Midwest Forests

July 23, 2025

Protecting the Midwest Landscape The trees that define the Midwest landscape (oaks, maples, elms, and more) are essential to the health of local ecosystems . They provide shade, support wildlife, and help maintain soil and air quality. But these natural systems are increasingly threatened by invasive plant species that crowd out native growth and disrupt the balance of the environment. Unlike native species, invasive plants are introduced from outside ecosystems and tend to grow rapidly, reproduce aggressively, and outcompete native plants for resources. Without natural predators or environmental checks, these plants spread quickly and can overtake entire landscapes if left unmanaged. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help property owners and land managers identify and remove these harmful species before they do lasting damage. Understanding the problem is the first step toward protecting your trees and your land.

Why Summer Storms Can Be a Threat to Weak Trees

July 16, 2025

How to Protect Your Property This Summer Midwestern summers are known for their beauty: long sunny days, lush greenery, and warm evenings. But they also bring a regular cycle of heavy storms. Thunderstorms, high winds, and saturated ground can wreak havoc on vulnerable trees, creating serious safety hazards and costly property damage. For homeowners and property managers, understanding how storm conditions interact with tree health is essential. The good news is that most storm-related tree failures are preventable with proactive care and inspection. This article will explore why weak trees are especially at risk during summer storms and how working with a certified arborist can help safeguard your property.

What Does It Mean to Be a Certified Arborist?

July 11, 2025

Expert Tree Care Starts Here When it comes to tree care, not all professionals are created equal. A chainsaw and a truck do not make someone qualified to assess the health, safety, and structure of a tree. That distinction belongs to certified arborists—tree care specialists who are trained, tested, and held to rigorous professional standards. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we take pride in providing expert tree care delivered by certified professionals. But what exactly does “certified arborist” mean? And why should it matter to homeowners and property managers? Let’s take a closer look at what this credential entails and why it’s a crucial factor in responsible, long-term tree care.

Tree Removal Isn’t a DIY Job: Here’s Why

July 3, 2025

The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Down Your Own Tree Cutting down a tree might seem like a straightforward task—especially with online videos making it look simple—but in reality, it’s one of the most dangerous jobs you can attempt on your property. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we routinely get called in to finish or fix failed DIY removals, and the risk is rarely worth the gamble. This article will walk through the dangers of DIY tree removal, the specialized knowledge required to do it safely, and why hiring a certified arborist is the right move for protecting your property and your safety.