Corrective Pruning Eliminates Stub Cuts

Recently a homeowner in Leon Springs, TX contacted Canopy Tree Service to trim her trees. She found herself displeased with the appearance of the large tree beside her garage. She was also concerned that perhaps some of the limbs were getting over the roof of her garage and branches could damage her roof. Canopy Tree came out to her home to review her tree care goals.

Our onsite inspection revealed the presence of stub cuts. The tree needed corrective pruning. Corrective tree pruning is a type of pruning technique used to correct and improve the structure and health of trees. Sometimes a tree needs corrective tree pruning because of how it is naturally growing. In this case, however, corrective tree pruning was necessary because inexperienced tree crews cut trees in a way that compromises the tree’s health. The company that came out prior to us had made numerous stub cuts.

Stub Cuts Bad for Trees

A stub cut occurs when an inexperienced trimmer cut a branch close to the trunk but leaves a small stub, according to Certified Arborist Lucas Rumancik. “Stub cuts are terrible for trees. Whenever a tree is cut it needs to develop callus tissue and wound material to seal the cut surface. A stub cut prolongs the “compartmentalization” of the wound and therefore exposes the tree to bacteria, fungi, and decay” Rumancik said.

To fix this particular problem, Canopy Tree Service placed a rope around the stub and cut the tree stubs back to the point of origin. Next, we rigged the big, heavy tree stubs down carefully with ropes, so they landed on the ground softly and did not damage the driveway or bump the surrounding fence. By cutting the tree at precise angles and locations, Canopy helped the tree’s natural capacity to self-heal any wound.

A Beauty “Manicure” Came Next

After correcting for stub cuts, Canopy gave the tree a basic “manicure.” This involved balancing the canopy in places, removing limbs that were susceptible to falling on the roof during strong winds or storms. Our goal was to create a stable, resilient structure that looked attractive. Afterwards, we swept tree leaves and other debris from the driveway.

This before picture shows an oak tree that was improperly pruned next to the homeowner's driveway. — This before picture shows an oak tree that was improperly pruned next to the homeowner’s driveway.

At the end of a long driveway adjacent to a residential garage is a newly pruned Live Oak. Over the roof above the garage doors are limbs that are about six feet above the roof. Plenty of sunlight and blue-sky filters through the tree limbs. — This before picture shows an oak tree that was improperly pruned next to the homeowner’s driveway.

Customer Reacts to Finished Job

“This is the second time I’ve used Canopy Tree Services. The hard-working team of Lucas, Israel and Klayton did an excellent job of manicuring my live oaks. They were considerate and respectful of my property. Stump removal was handled swiftly and efficiently. I was very pleased with the finished look of the trees; what a difference! The backyard and driveway clean-up was awesome. I highly recommend Shane Kelly and crew for a professional tree trimming experience.”

Kathi Campbell

Repeat Customer, Leon Springs

At Canopy Tree Service, our team of experienced and trained arborists knows exactly how to make the right cuts for your trees. We understand that each tree species has unique growth patterns, and we take this into consideration when performing any trimming. Our onsite inspection of your tree and visit about your tree care project is complimentary and the easiest way to get on our schedule is to complete our request for a free estimate.