Tree pruning helps trees stay healthy and strong. It also improves safety and appearance. But pruning mistakes can damage trees or shorten their lifespan. In Kennesaw, where trees face strong summer storms and heavy rainfall, proper pruning is important.
At Vilchis Tree Services Pro of Kennesaw, we help homeowners prune trees the right way. In this post, we explain the most common mistakes to avoid.
Kennesaw Tree Care Facts
Kennesaw averages 50 inches of rain per year
Frequent summer storms increase the risk of broken limbs
Tree overgrowth near homes and power lines is a leading cause of storm damage
“We fix a lot of tree problems caused by bad pruning,” says Luis Perez, owner of Vilchis Tree Services Pro. “Doing it right makes a big difference.”
1. Cutting Too Much at Once
Removing too many limbs at one time weakens the tree. A tree needs leaves to make food and stay strong. Cutting too much reduces its ability to recover.
Safe guideline: Never remove more than 25% of the canopy during one pruning session.
2. Topping the Tree
Topping is when you cut off the top of the tree to reduce height. This is harmful and leads to:
Weak new growth
More breakage during storms
Faster tree decline
“Topping ruins tree structure,” says Luis. “We always recommend proper thinning instead.”
3. Making Improper Cuts
Cutting too close to the trunk or leaving long stubs creates problems. Incorrect cuts:
Invite pests and disease
Delay healing
Cause weak regrowth
Always cut just outside the branch collar—the raised area where the branch meets the trunk.
4. Pruning at the Wrong Time
Timing matters. Pruning at the wrong time can stress the tree or expose it to disease. In Kennesaw:
Late winter to early spring is best for most pruning
Avoid heavy pruning in summer heat
Do not prune during active disease outbreaks
5. Using Dirty or Dull Tools
Dirty blades spread disease from one tree to another. Dull tools cause rough cuts that heal slowly.
Always use clean, sharp tools and disinfect between trees if you’re pruning multiple in one visit.
6. Ignoring Safety Hazards
Pruning near power lines or from ladders is dangerous. Many pruning injuries happen from falls or electric shock.
“If the job looks risky, don’t do it yourself,” says Luis. “Call a trained tree service instead.”
Safe Pruning Tips for Kennesaw Homeowners
Start with dead, damaged, or crossing limbs
Trim for shape and airflow, not just appearance
Prune trees every 2–3 years for balance and health
Inspect trees after storms for broken or hanging limbs
Get Help from a Local Tree Expert
Vilchis Tree Services Pro of Kennesaw offers:
Tree health inspections
Storm cleanup and trimming
Free estimates
???? Call us today to schedule proper tree services that protects your home and your trees.
“We help trees grow right from the start,” says Luis. “Good pruning now prevents big problems later.”