The term “Tree Skirts” is used in arboriculture to describe the practice of raising the skirt of a tree, which involves removing lower branches to raise the canopy. This technique is also called crown raising and is used to enhance aesthetics, improve visibility, and improve the health of a tree.
Raising Tree Skirts is Important
Raising the skirt on tree has many benefits. It eliminates any visual obstruction in urban aread that may pose a danger to pedestrians or vehicles. It is especially important to do this when low-hanging branches block driveways and sidewalks. Trimming these branches will also help to slow down future growth, maintain a neat, manicured appearence for longer.
Tree care professionals can use routine pruning to train these low-hanging branches as they grow, or even stunt their growth in order to prevent future visual impairments. It also acts as a precaution for hurricane season. These droopy limbs are structurally weaker because of the pressure they receive from gravity and their weight.
These branches will be more susceptible to breaking if hurricane force winds blow through. The tree can be lifted higher to allow the wind to pass under it more easily, reducing the risk of failure. By removing them, you eliminate this danger to your property.
How to raise tree skirts
Raising tree skirts is the process of strategically removing lower branches in order to create an’skirt effect’. This allows more air and light to reach the lower part of the tree. It also promotes better growth by reducing the overcrowding between branches.
This practice is only appropriate for mature trees. Raising skirts on younger trees can hinder their natural growth by removing vital nutrients or sunlight. As part of routine pruning and maintenance, older trees can benefit from raising their skirts.
Considerations before Raising Tree Skirts
Raising tree skirts has many benefits but it is important to use caution. The appearance of a mini-skirt can be created by removing too many lower branches. This is not natural and should be avoided. As a rule, do not raise low branches higher than one third of the tree’s height. As an example, the lowest limbs of a tree 30 feet tall should not exceed 10 feet. Even if they are raised to this level, it can increase the risk of structural failure in some trees and reduce their lifespan.
The Role Professional Arborists Play in Raising Tree Skirts
It’s best to consult a professional arborist due to the complexity of raising tree skirts. Before pruning, an arborist will examine the trees and advise on how to best maintain their health. The type of pruning you choose will depend on a variety of factors, including the species, location and size of your trees, as well as their condition.
A professional arborist will have the expertise to determine the best type of pruning for each tree. They can also perform the task with precision and skill. A professional arborist can not only raise skirts for your trees but also remove dangerous and dead branches, shape the branches to improve their aesthetic appeal or maximize fruit production. Professional pruning services include preventive and monitoring care to protect your trees against diseases and pests.
FAQs
Does raising the skirt on a tree increase its susceptibility to disease?
Raising the skirt of a tree can cause wounds which may act as entry points for disease if done incorrectly. To minimize this risk, it is important to use the right pruning technique and time.
What is the average cost of having a professional raise the skirt of a tree?
Costs vary depending on factors like the size of the tree, its location and how much pruning is required. You should get quotes from arborists who are certified in your area.
Does raising the skirt on my tree change its shade coverage?
The amount of shade under the tree will be reduced by removing the lower branches. It can also allow more light to penetrate the ground and benefit understory plants.
Is there a tree species whose skirts should never be raised?
Some tree species may be more sensitive to trimming and not respond as well to skirt-raising. Consult an arborist for the best method to use on your tree species.
Conclusion
Raising a tree’s skirt is an arboriculture practice that has many benefits. These include improved aesthetics, increased visibility, and better health of the tree. It’s important to be cautious and take into account the needs of each individual tree when implementing this practice. Consult with a professional arborist to ensure the process is done correctly and promotes the health and beauty of the trees for the long term
