Trees tend to heal better on their own
Pruning sealers is a product marketed to aid in helping trees heal after cutting a branch.
In most cases, it’s best to allow trees to heal naturally without additional products.
Hiring a professional tree trimmer can reduce the risk of damaging your tree.
Trimming a tree properly is essential to its health, and if done incorrectly can damage or even kill it. You may have heard of pruning sealers and wonder what to put on a tree after cutting one of its branches to aid in the healing process. But is that the best option for your tree's health?
Let’s review what to put on a tree after cutting a branch, when products are helpful, and when to consult a local tree trimming professional.
While there are products available for post-branch trimming aid, most of the time, it's best to allow the tree to heal naturally without applying a tree wound dressing. Pruning sealer, also known as pruning paint, is a product marketed to help protect tree wounds from disease and pests after cutting a branch. However, many products are made with petroleum-based ingredients and even contain tar or asphalt.
This chemical make-up can cause more harm to the recovering tree. In many cases, the sealer can make it more difficult for the tree to recover naturally, trap moisture in the tree, and cause it to decay. There are some sealers that contain more natural ingredients, such as aloe gel and collagen. So, you should research the products and consider whether you should use a sealer or leave the tree alone.
In extreme instances, some people choose to apply a pruning sealer to old or unhealthy trees, especially during high-risk disease season. However, by implementing proper pruning techniques and cutting branches at the right time of year, you can reduce the risk of damaging the tree and skip using a sealer. Consult a local tree trimming professional to decide whether it’s in your tree’s best interest to apply a prune sealer.
Trees are very resilient and have an amazing ability to heal themselves naturally. So, there are some ways you can help your tree heal rather than sealing a tree after cutting a branch. Use these methods to keep your tree healthy after a pruning session:
Use proper pruning techniques: When cutting a tree branch, it’s essential to make clean cuts with sharp tools. You also want to cut at the right angle to help direct water flow and prevent rot.
Cut and prune at the right time: Timing is key when cutting a branch and keeping your tree healthy. If it's safe to wait to cut the limb, then prune during the right time to prevent it from being prone to pests and diseases.
Water the tree: It's vital to keep your recently cut tree hydrated to promote healing. You should water it thoroughly, but always be careful not to overwater the tree either.
Apply fertilizer if needed: In some cases, you may want to apply fertilizer to provide the tree with additional nutrients to aid in the healing process. Of course, you should test the soil to see what it may be lacking to ensure you use the correct type and amount.
Hire a professional arborist: If you have already cut your tree and it's showing signs of distress, then you should have a certified arborist help you determine the best way to help heal the tree and prevent the risk of further issues.
Although trees can recover from cutting a branch, it can be prone to diseases and pests if done improperly. Hiring a professional tree trimmer near you to tackle the task can ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
The price to trim a tree will depend on various factors, such as the size of the tree, type, and time of year. However, the average cost of tree trimming is $460, but prices can range between $270 and $1,800. So, if you don’t feel comfortable making branch cuts and want to keep your tree healthy, then you should hire a tree trimming pro to do it for you.
Yes, you will want to confirm that the tree removal company you hire is insured before proceeding with the job. Tree removal can be dangerous work, and it's important to verify that the company carries the proper insurance to cover any onsite accidents or damage.
As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Certified” badge. Angi Certified businesses meet our standards for certification which include:
The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check
Required to have applicable state and local licenses
Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review
Paying to advertise their services
Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi
Budget over $1,500 if you need a tree removed from your yard that’s larger than 80 feet. Large tree removal is a significant project that requires a crane, and the overall price will increase if the tree is close to your house. Typically, smaller trees can cost as low as $8 per foot to remove, while larger trees (over 80 feet) can cost at least $15 per foot.
To have a fallen tree removed near your home, you can expect to pay between $100 to $500. Your local tree removal professional will most likely just need to cut and remove the tree from your property, but factors like the size of the tree and its trunk diameter impact this cost. In addition, there will be an extra cost to fill in the hole left by the tree, and while you have your tree removal specialist on-site, it might be worth it to have them inspect the other trees in your yard for potential damage. Trees that have fallen onto your home or another structure, will likely be more costly to remove
On average, removing a tree costs around $750, but you can expect to pay between $200 to $2,000. Factors that impact the overall cost include the number of trees you’re having removed, their height, the diameter of their trunks, permits needed, and the tree’s accessibility. You’ll pay more if the tree is in a hard-to-reach area or dangerous location, like close to power lines.
If there are no online reviews, ask them for referrals. If a tree removal company is reputable, you won't be their first client. It's perfectly acceptable to ask for references on your initial call, and if a removal company won't provide referrals, it's time to move on.
Find out what equipment they use. Some types of tree removal equipment are better than others, and a removal company might need special tools to get your particular job done. On your first conversation with a prospective removal company, make sure that you clearly express the nature of the job you want accomplished and receive assurances that the company has the proper equipment.
Consider all of the costs. Always ask for an estimate up-front. Inquire about the job itself and any potential hidden fees that you might not be aware of.
