A beautiful, sprawling tree can be a backyard blessing, creating some shade and even becoming a habitat for wildlife. Many trees can keep growing for decades, which is fine if you have plenty of space. But sometimes, large trees can start to become a nuisance or even a safety hazard. Tree shaping is a method of reducing the size of a tree to help keep it in check.

Let's explore what tree shaping is and some of its benefits.

What is tree shaping?

Tree shaping is a procedure performed by arborists to reduce the size of a tree, usually concentrated on the canopy. This involves cutting back several leading branches to a designated size, usually 1/3 or ½ of each branch. Tree shaping reduces the height and width of the tree's branches, helping to keep it in check.

Can tree shaping harm a tree?

Tree shaping is an effective way to limit the size and spread of a tree. However, lopping too many branches back at once can severely shock and even kill a tree. The branches support the foliage, which is essential for photosynthesis. If too many branches are removed, the tree won't be able to get enough food. Cuts must also be made in the right places so that the tree can heal properly. If not, the tree can be more susceptible to storm damage or diseases and pests.

Benefits of tree shaping

When done correctly, tree shaping yields several benefits for both you and the tree. Here are the main ones:

• Removes weak, dead, or diseased branches from the tree
• Stops the tree from violating fence boundaries or obstructing yard work
• Promotes renewed growth from fresh buds
• Allows more airflow and sunlight to reach the tree
• Reduces weight by removing old branches or fruit pods
• Limits the risk of storm damage

How is tree shaping carried out?

Tree shaping or reduction must conform to Australian regulations. Some species of trees, especially native ones, cannot legally be trimmed back to reduce their height. For other trees, there are strict limits as to how much of the tree can actually be removed. Many trees can lose their natural form if tree shaping is not performed correctly.

Tree shaping should always be performed by trained professionals, such as the skilled arborists at Treepeeps Tree Services. During a reduction, our specialists will trim back some of the tree's leading branches by a 1/3 or  1/2. To stimulate fresh growth, we only cut branches back to healthy buds while still retaining your tree's natural shape and form.

Our Brisbane arborists are also expert tree climbers, allowing them to get into the right positions safely to get the job done. When shaping trees, our experts always conform to national and local regulations related to tree reductions.

If you require tree shaping services in the South-East Queensland area, contact the team at Treepeeps Tree Services today.