If you're having problems growing grass, plants and flowers in an area of your property that is shaded by large trees, you don't have to give up growing, nor do you have to cut down that tree. Here, you'll learn a little about the problem you're experiencing and how tree lacing could be the solution.
Why is the vegetation having trouble thriving?
When vegetation is grown under a healthy tree and is struggling to survive, the tree could be preventing the fresh air and sun from reaching the plants. This results in the plants not getting the nutrients they need to grow – essentially starving to death.
How can you solve the problem?
The best action to take to start with is to lace the tree. Tree lacing is the practice of thinning the limbs of the tree to allow more sunlight and air to penetrate the canopy and reach the ground below. This will help in two ways – it will help the tree to remain healthy longer, reduce insect issues and allow the sunlight to make it to the ground.
How is a tree laced?
This is a fairly simple technique that healthy, strong adults can complete with ease. You'll need a ladder, hand pruner and pole pruner.
Step 1: Examine the Tree. Take a look at the limbs of the tree from all angles. Your goal is to eliminate the branches without distorting the shape of the tree while thinning out the canopy.
Step 2: Remove Dead Branches. The technique that you use to cut off the dead branches is important for your safety and the health of the tree. Start cutting a wedge into the underside of the branch about 3-4 inches away from the trunk. Make a second cut on the top of the branch, angling the cut towards the trunk. Continue cutting until the second cut works through to the underside wedge. The branch should fall freely.
Step 3: Selectively Remove Live Branches. Look for branches that shoot out into a "V" shape. This type of branch can cause weight issues as they grow bigger, so removing one of the branches that shoots off of that "V" will help you now and later. Use the same cutting technique as you did with the dead branches.
Step 4: Final Trimming. If removing the dead branches and the "V" shaped branches haven't opened up the tree enough to clearly see sun shining through to the ground, you'll need to do a little more trimming. Look for branches that are growing very closely together and cut one off to thin the area.
When this job is done, the tree should have a lace-like appearance as you look up at the sun through the canopy. If you're not comfortable taking on a project such as this on your own, talk with a local tree trimming services company for assistance.
Share23 March 2018
After we moved into our house, we knew that something had to be done about our trees. The branches looked off-kilter, and we could tell that someone had pruned them incorrectly at one time or another. Unfortunately, we weren't really sure how to repair the damage. A family friend talked with us about hiring a professional tree trimmer, and so we called them the next day. The difference that they made was astounding. They removed dead branches, trimmed up the shape, and let more sunlight through. My blog is all about improving the look of your trees by hiring a professional.