Important Tips About Tree Lopping Beginners Should Remember
We all want to keep trees that are healthy and pleasing to look at on our properties. But trees have a tendency to develop problems and diseases that can get out of hand if left untreated or unaddressed. In many cases, cutting away a few branches can help to keep the tree growing healthily. If you’d like to cut your own tree, below are important tips about tree lopping that are worth remembering for those who are new to the job.
4 Simple Yet Important Tips About Tree Lopping
1. Have the right tools for the job.
For small trees with thin branches, using a bypass lopper will usually suffice. Bigger branches, however, are easier to cut using pruning saws, filing saws, or a chainsaw. Another good tool that can help with high branches is a long reach pruner. If, however, the tree is considerably large, it’s best to call a professional lopper so you don’t hurt yourself or damage your tree.
2. Wear protective equipment.
While trimming trees, wearing the following protective equipment is highly recommended:
- A hard hat
- Gloves
- Non-slip boots
- Climbing equipment and safety harness
- Hearing protection
- Safety glasses
- Face shield
Especially if this is your first time lopping a tree, using a safety harness when you’re climbing the tree or up on a ladder is critical. When using a chainsaw, don’t forget the gloves and face shield or safety glasses, as well. Safety should be your top priority regardless if you’re lopping a small or large tree.
3. Learn basic techniques for effective tree lopping.
You may be tempted to just start hacking away at the branches, but there’s always a proper way to cut your tree to make sure it stays healthy. For instance, you shouldn’t damage the branch collar. Instead, cut outside the branch bard ridge and angle your cut down and away from the stem.
For longer stems, consider using the three-cut technique. Start by making a notch on the side of the stem, facing away from the branch that will be retained. The second notch is made inside the crotch of the band, just above the branch ridge. For the final cut, you just need to cut through the stem that’s parallel to the branch bark ridge.
4. Prune only when necessary.
Trees should only be lopped for three reasons:
- You want to improve its appearance.
- You want to improve its health.
- It poses a safety hazard.
One of the most important tips about tree lopping every property owner should know is they should only be done if absolutely necessary, such as to improve the aesthetics of a house or to remove loose branches that could fall at any moment. They can also be done to encourage leaf and fruit production.
How much do tree cutting services Sydney cost?
There’s no reason to put yourself, others, and the surrounding property at risk if you feel it’s best to hire professional tree cutting services Sydney. Have in mind, however, that the cost will vary according to the height of the tree and the amount of work required. Typical prices may range between $50 to $150 per hour.
If you’re looking for affordable tree cutting services in Sydney, Tall Timbers Tree Services offers one of the best tree lopping services at an affordable cost. If you’d like to get more important tips about tree lopping or would like to request a free quote, call us on 0414 627 627.