Question 1

What is the difference between pruning and trimming?

Accepted Answer

Pruning is the selective removal of branches for the health, structure, and safety of the tree — removing dead wood, crossing branches, or structurally weak limbs. Trimming typically refers to shaping for aesthetics, like maintaining a hedge or reducing a tree's size. Both require proper technique to avoid damaging the tree.

Question 2

When is the best time to prune trees in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Late winter (February–March) is the best time for most trees. Trees are dormant, wounds close quickly as spring growth begins, and the bare canopy makes it easy to see the structure. Exception: never prune oaks from April through July due to Oak Wilt risk. Spring-flowering trees (dogwood, redbud) should be pruned immediately after bloom.

Question 3

How much of a tree can be pruned at one time?

Accepted Answer

The general rule is never remove more than 25% of a tree's live canopy in a single pruning. Removing too much at once stresses the tree, triggers excessive water sprout growth, and can lead to decline. For trees that need significant reduction, we spread the work over 2–3 years.

Question 4

What is crown reduction and when is it appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Crown reduction reduces the overall size of the tree's canopy by cutting branches back to lateral branches large enough to assume the terminal role. It's appropriate when a tree has outgrown its space, is too close to a structure, or poses a wind-load risk. Done correctly, it maintains the tree's natural form. Done incorrectly (topping), it causes serious long-term damage.

Question 5

What is tree topping and why is it harmful?

Accepted Answer

Topping is the indiscriminate cutting of large branches to stubs — often done to reduce tree height quickly. It is widely condemned by arborists because it creates large wounds that rarely close properly, triggers rapid regrowth of weak water sprouts, and ultimately makes the tree more hazardous and shorter-lived. We do not top trees.

Question 6

How much does tree pruning cost in Maryland?

Accepted Answer

Tree pruning in Maryland typically costs $250–$800 for a single tree, depending on size, species, and the extent of work needed. Large trees requiring specialized rigging or aerial work cost more. We provide free written estimates for all pruning work.

Question 7

Can pruning save a diseased tree?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. Removing diseased branches early can prevent the spread of fungal diseases and bacterial infections. For diseases like Oak Wilt or Dutch Elm Disease, pruning alone cannot save an infected tree, but removing infected material can slow spread to neighboring trees.

Question 8

Do you clean your tools between trees?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We disinfect cutting tools between trees using a 10% bleach solution or 70% isopropyl alcohol. This is especially important when working on oaks (Oak Wilt) and elms (Dutch Elm Disease), where contaminated tools can spread disease.

Question 9

What is the difference between a tree expert and an arborist?

Accepted Answer

In Maryland, a Licensed Tree Expert (LTE) is a state-issued credential requiring demonstrated knowledge of tree care, safety, and Maryland-specific regulations. An ISA Certified Arborist is a national credential from the International Society of Arboriculture. Both indicate professional training. Arundel Tree Service holds Maryland Licensed Tree Expert credentials #1106 and #2060.

Question 10

Will pruning my tree increase my property value?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Studies consistently show that well-maintained trees add 10–15% to property value. Proper pruning improves tree structure, reduces hazard risk, and enhances curb appeal — all of which contribute to property value. Neglected or improperly pruned trees can actually reduce value.

Tree Pruning & Trimming Questions Answered

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