Winter time is the best time for tree trimming – and not just the Christmas sort! Most expert arborists agree that trees here in Florida should be pruned every 2-3 years. This may seem excessive but remember that city and suburban trees have very different lives than do trees living in natural forests. They receive different nutrients and rarely succumb to fire or wildlife foraging; urban trees are also exposed to different diseases and insects than are their country cousins. You know your trees need attention if you see dying or dead limbs, invasive parasites, or suspect that a potentially dangerous hole or cavity has formed.
Take no chances when hiring a contractor to care for your trees – and not only for the sake of neighborhood safety, which is obviously paramount. Diligent care of your trees potentially increases your property’s value. Make sure to use a licensed professional arborist with current workers compensation and general liability coverage; confirm that their employees are well-trained, supervised and experienced and make sure they adhere to proper industry work practices (i.e., no ‘topping’ of trees, no climbing spikes on live trees).
Do your homework before you hire and the odds are great you’ll have the lovely, healthy trees you always wanted – and you’ll have them for many years to come.