Tree Branches
We need trees not just for oxygen but for shade, foods and more. This weekend I spent a majority of a day cutting tree branches that were hanging to low, nearing some overhead wiring and were just in the way.
I didn't want to damage the trees so I did some research online on how to properly cut these branches so that I wouldn't damage the trees.
Here is how to go about cutting tree branches with out seriously harming the tree itself.
Start off by figuring out if your going to be able to cut the branches safely or not. If not then it is best to hire a tree cutting service to do the work for you.
If you can do it yourself, start off by figuring out which branches are going to need to be cut.
Then you will need to make sure you have a sharp saw, gloves and eye protection. Always put safety first.
After deciding which branches need to be cut start off cutting the underside of the branch going upwards about half way or just before the saw starts to bind. Also make sure that you do not cut into the collar of the branch.
A branch collar is identified as the buldge you see between the branch and the tree itself. Cutting into this can damage your tree or even kill it. So make sure that you steer clear of any cuts that close.
Once you have made your upward cut, move to the top of the branch and make your cut about an inch further out on the branch than the bottem cut.
If you want to make sure that your tree heals quickly after being cut, cut the branch off at the collar of the branch (with out cutting into the collar) and healing will be much quicker.
Some say to paint the freshly cut stub when your done cutting but this can actually harm the tree more than it will help it, so avoid doing that.
I never thought there was so much to know about cutting a tree branch but if you want to save the tree it is well worth doing it right the first time.
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