The Ultimate Pruning Guide for Georgia’s Most Common Trees

Georgia is fortunate to have an array of native trees that are beautiful all on their own. But even the loveliest and hardiest species can use a little help sometimes, which is where expert pruning comes in.

Done either as a preventive or corrective measure, pruning eliminates dead, crowded, or hazardous branches, and makes way for new growth. And like many aspects of tree care, there’s a science behind the perfect pruning techniques. Here, we share some tips for pruning the species you’re most likely to have on your property in Georgia.

Pruning Your Pines

Pine trees are plentiful in our state, and these quick-growing evergreens call for careful pruning, especially when they’re young and vulnerable. As they age, they round out naturally, with many taking on an iconic cone shape and growing more robust. Virginia pines, white pines, and longleaf pines are among the most common species you’ll find.

Pine trees can sometimes achieve aesthetically pleasing forms without much shaping. But as they grow, you can encourage this even further by trimming any especially long or misshapen branches back by about one-third. Prune during late winter or early spring, when needles on new shoots are about half as long as more mature ones. (Longleaf pines are an exception, and can be pruned during any season except spring.)

Minding Magnolias

Like many Georgia native trees, mature Southern magnolias require little to no pruning, save for branches that have been impacted by storm damage, disease, or pests. But young magnolias can be pruned to produce bountiful blooms and grow in a desired direction.

After blooms have stopped and the weather is cooler, grab a pair of pruners and tend to brittle branches or those that interfere with your tree’s symmetry. Cut the branch about a quarter-inch above a healthy bud. Ideally, you’ll want to repeat this process each year until your tree reaches maturity, trimming just a few branches at a time to prevent stress.

Helping Along the Hickories

Pruning young hickories will set them up for robust growth and a greater yield of nuts. You’ll want to remove broken, brittle, or otherwise damaged branches when the tree is dormant — about six weeks before buds begin to open. Concentrate on the top fifth of the tree to spur new growth.

When making cuts, use an angle to force moisture away from the newly cut surface, which will prevent rot. Cut affected branches back to the nearest healthy node instead of shearing off a main stem.

Shaping Maples

While you could effectively trim your maple trees in early spring before leaves form, doing so will release a sticky mess of sap as it starts to rise. Not only is it unsightly, but sap will also attract insects and other pests. So if you have a maple that needs maintenance, consider waiting until late fall, when sap flow slows down.

Since maple saplings can be especially fragile, we also recommend waiting until the tree’s third year to begin pruning. Cut dead or damaged branches at this time, or those interfering with the tree’s natural growth pattern. Using pruning shears, make cuts parallel to the trunk. Avoid cutting too close to the base of the branch, as this can create wounds that may become infected or invite pest activity.

Schedule a Pruning Assessment With Premier Tree Solutions

With these tips and the right pair of shears, you can prune your young trees with confidence — but mature trees are a different matter. Our crews have the specialty knowledge and equipment to prune and trim trees of all sizes safely. To request a free assessment, use our contact form online or call 404.252.6448.

 

How to Protect Stored Firewood from Pests and Rot

Sitting by the fire on a crisp, cool night is one of life’s quiet pleasures. But when your firewood supply surprises you with an unpleasant discovery, it can turn your hygge upside-down, disrupting what could have been a cozy evening.

Unfortunately, firewood is prone to pests and rot. At best, these issues could be a nuisance — at worst, a serious hazard. The good news: We have some tips to keep your kindling in top-notch quality for a season of evenings by the hearth.

What Are the Risks of Pests or Rot in Firewood?

First and foremost, you can take comfort in the fact that most of the pests found in firewood are unlikely to cause direct harm to you or your family. (Though do be mindful that both black widows and brown recluses can make their homes in gaps between stacked wood.) But that’s not to say any insect can’t become a hassle.

Take termites, for one: while tracking a few in your home won’t cause major damage, if they’re found in wood piled close to your house, an infestation could ensue. And while wood-boring beetles and carpenter ants that hitch a ride indoors probably won’t take hold in your walls, you’d probably prefer to keep creepy crawlers outside.

Rot can also be a concern. Typically, firewood becomes rotten when it’s exposed to high moisture levels. While even well-seasoned wood contains at least some water content, higher-than-average moisture levels can lead to poor performance and buildup of creosote, a serious risk for chimney fires.

How Do You Keep Pests Out of Firewood?

Take Things Up a Notch

Leaving firewood on the ground is essentially an open invitation for an insect house party. Fortunately, raising it is a simple solution. You can find firewood racks online and at many home improvement stores, though cinder blocks and lumber pallets work just as well.

Keep It Covered

Having your firewood elevated also makes it easier to tarp off, since you now have anchor points for bungee cords or rope. Not only will a cover help keep bugs at bay, but it can also prevent precipitation from seeping in.

Use Up Old Stock

If you continuously add to your firewood pile but take only from the top, that means the logs on the bottom will go unused. As wood ages, it decomposes and will eventually attract pests. It’s therefore a good rule of thumb to always grab your oldest wood. To avoid having to reshuffle your pile each time, add onto it by placing new wood width-wise.

How Can You Protect Firewood Against Rot?

Besides deterring pests, covering and rotating your firewood will also go a long way to reduce the risk of rot. Here are a few extra steps you can take to keep your wood from getting too damp.

Stack Strategically

Stacking logs might sound straightforward, but believe it or not, there are multiple methods to consider. No matter which you choose, the goal is to keep the pile level but still allow for ample airflow so moisture can’t get trapped.

Give Some Space

The placement of firewood on your property can also help or hurt when it comes to moisture. Ideally, you’ll want to keep your supply away from anything that could attract moisture, including outdoor rugs, nearby shrubbery, and soil.

Schedule a Consultation With an Arborist at Premier Tree Solutions

If you’re thinking of having a tree cut down for future firewood, turn to Premier Tree Solutions. Our arborists can assist you with your tree care needs through every season. Contact us online for an assessment or reach us at 404.252.6448.