How Often Should Trees Be Trimmed?
Most mature yard trees only need a proper trim every few years.
Short answer: Most mature yard trees only need a proper trim every few years. Young trees benefit from lighter shaping more often. Dead, broken or rubbing branches should come off whenever you notice them.
A Rough Guide
| Tree | How often |
|---|---|
| Young trees | Light shaping every year or two, to build good structure |
| Mature shade trees | Every few years, or as needed |
| Evergreens | Rarely, beyond removing dead or low branches |
| Any tree | Dead or broken branches: whenever you see them |
Signs It’s Time
- Branches touching the roof, the house or wires.
- Dead or broken limbs in the canopy.
- Low branches over the driveway or walkway.
- A crown so dense the lawn won’t grow underneath.
Less Is More
Over-pruning stresses a tree and causes weak regrowth. The best trimming is selective. See crown thinning. We’ll tell you honestly if your tree doesn’t need anything yet.
What Neighbours Say
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They sent an arborist to provide a quote for tree cutting and trimming the same day I called. Scott and his team completed the job efficiently and left no mess!
Karen Jang, Google review
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They work on my backyard trees in a proper manner, fast and clean. Richmond Hill Tree Guy gave a second life to my trees.
Gerard Kouakou, Google review
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Easy to deal with, quick and very professional team. Thanks Heather and team.
Vivek Chandra, Google review
Related Questions
Can you trim a tree too often?
Yes. Heavy pruning every year stresses a tree. Mature trees need much less.
What time of year is best?
Late fall and winter for most trees. See the best time to trim.
Call or Text for a Free Quote
Tell us about your tree and we'll come out the same day. If a trim will do, we'll say so.
- Hours
- Mon to Sun, 8am to 8pm
- Address
- 9665 Bayview Ave, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 9V4
Get directions - Where we work
- We work all over Richmond Hill, including Oak Ridges, Jefferson, Elgin Mills, Carrville, Headford, Quaker, Temperanceville.
Honest advice. Same-day free quote.
Text Us (289) 475-5822