Does Your Tree Need to Be Trimmed? Here’s How To Tell
Hey there, fellow tree owner! You know, trees are kind of like the quiet roommates of our yards they don’t complain much, but they definitely need some attention now and then. Living here in Albuquerque, our trees face some unique challenges with the dry heat, those crazy high winds, and those summer storms that seem to come out of nowhere.
I’ve spent years working with all kinds of trees at Red Shovel Landscaping everything from giant cottonwoods to those fussy fruit trees that need just the right touch. Let me share some insights on how to tell when your tree needs a trim or not.
Warning Signs Your Tree Needs Attention
When your tree needs trimming, it has ways of letting you know.
Here are the signals to watch for:
- Those branches rubbing against your roof? That’s bad news waiting to happen. When the wind kicks up (and we know how it gets here), those branches drag across your shingles like sandpaper. Before you know it, you’re looking at roof repairs alongside your tree trimming.
- Dead or broken limbs are a no-brainer. They’re coming down eventually—the only question is when and what will be underneath when they do. Your car? Your kid’s play set? Better to handle them on your terms than have gravity make the decision.
- If your tree looks seriously lopsided, that’s not just an aesthetic issue. It’s about weight distribution. Trees that grow heavily toward one side (usually reaching for sunlight) can become unstable over time.
- Too much shade beneath your tree might mean the canopy is too dense. Not only can this suffocate your lawn, but it also means air can’t flow properly through the branches, which can stress the tree itself.
- Branches near power lines? That’s an immediate call-the-pros situation. No exceptions. Not worth the risk to yourself or your home’s electrical supply.
- And if you can’t remember the last time your tree was trimmed, it’s probably overdue. Most trees benefit from a trim every 3-5 years, with some fast-growers needing attention even more frequently.
Our Approach: What Happens When You Call Us
When you reach out about tree trimming, we don’t just show up with chainsaws blazing.
Here’s what happens:
- First, we’ll walk your property together. Show us what’s concerning you, and we’ll give you our honest assessment—including telling you if something doesn’t actually need trimming yet.
- We’ll check your tree’s overall health, looking for signs of disease, pests, structural weaknesses, or stress points that need addressing.
- Before making a single cut, we develop a plan. Each cut affects how the tree grows next, so we think about long-term health as well as immediate concerns.
- When we do get to work, we use proper techniques and tools to make clean cuts that heal properly. No jagged edges, no torn bark, no amateur hour here.
- And yes, we clean up thoroughly afterward. Tree trimming can create quite a mess, but you won’t know it when we’re done.
Common Questions About Tree Trimming
When’s the best time to trim trees here in Albuquerque?
Fall and winter are ideal for most species because the trees are dormant. That said, if you’ve got dangerous dead limbs or hazardous situations, that trumps timing safety first, always.
Should I just handle the trimming myself?
For small, low branches that you can reach while standing firmly on the ground? Sure. But once you need a ladder or you’re dealing with branches thicker than your wrist, the risk factor goes up significantly. Both to you and potentially to the tree if cuts aren’t made properly.
How often should my trees get trimmed?
It varies by species some species grow like they’re on a mission, while other varieties are slower-paced. Generally speaking, every 3-5 years is a good rule of thumb for established trees.
What about trees near power lines?
Please don’t touch them! That’s specialized work that requires training and proper equipment. We have the certification and gear to handle it safely.
Do fruit trees need different treatment?
Absolutely. Fruit trees follow their own rulebook. We prune them to encourage better fruit production and maintain an accessible shape it’s as much about next year’s harvest as it is about current appearance.
Let’s Talk Before Problems Grow
Here in Albuquerque, I’ve seen what neglected trees can turn into during our storm season. You don’t have to wait until you have a problem to get your trees looked at. If you’re noticing any of these warning signs or if it’s just been a while give us a call at Red Shovel Landscaping. We’ll help you read the signals your trees are sending and take care of them before trouble takes root.
