January 19, 2026

The Do’s and Don’ts of Tree Trimming Every Homeowner Should Know

Tree trimming is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Whether you’re trying to improve curb appeal, prevent overgrowth, or remove dead branches, improper trimming can do more harm than good.

At Salas Services, we provide expert tree trimming and pruning services across the DFW Metroplex and surrounding areas, helping homeowners maintain beautiful and structurally sound trees. Let’s walk through the key do’s and don’ts to help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your outdoor investment.

Do: Trim for Health and Structure

One of the primary goals of trimming is to improve tree health. Removing dead, diseased, or weak limbs encourages better airflow, prevents pest infestations, and allows the tree to direct energy toward healthy growth. Additionally, strategic trimming helps:

Improve the tree’s shape and symmetry
Prevent overcrowding of branches
Reduce the risk of limb failure in storms

Always keep the tree’s natural form in mind while trimming.

Don’t: Over-Prune or Top the Tree

Over-pruning, especially all at once, is one of the most damaging mistakes. Removing more than 25% of the tree’s canopy can stress the tree and stunt its growth. Similarly, topping—cutting off large portions of the top—is highly discouraged. It leads to:

Rapid but weak regrowth
Increased vulnerability to pests
A shortened lifespan

Healthy trimming means careful cuts—not drastic shearing.

Do: Trim During the Right Season

The best time to trim trees is typically during the dormant season (late winter to early spring), especially for deciduous trees. Trimming during this time:

Encourages vigorous spring growth
Minimizes sap loss
Reduces risk of disease or insect infestation

However, broken or dangerous limbs should always be removed promptly—no matter the season.

Don’t: Trim During High Stress Periods

Avoid trimming:

During droughts
In the middle of hot summers
Just after a tree has been transplanted

These times already stress the tree, and trimming can further compromise its ability to heal. Our team at Salas Services can assess the health of your tree before recommending the right timing.

Do: Use Proper Tools and Techniques

Tree trimming isn’t just about cutting—it’s about making the right cuts. Always:

Use clean, sharp tools
Make angled cuts just outside the branch collar
Avoid tearing or jagged cuts

These best practices help the tree heal faster and avoid infections.

Don’t: Try to Handle Large Jobs Yourself

If you’re dealing with large branches, tall trees, or limbs near power lines or your home, don’t risk it. DIY trimming in these situations can be:

Dangerous to you and your property
Incomplete or ineffective
Potentially damaging to the tree

Let our experienced crew handle the heavy lifting with the right equipment and safety protocols.

Why Choose Salas Services for Tree Trimming?

Our certified team brings years of expertise to every tree trimming job. We:

Understand the unique needs of trees in the DFW region
Use precise techniques to promote long-term tree health
Offer seasonal maintenance to keep your yard looking its best

Whether it’s routine pruning or storm prep trimming, we’re here to help your trees thrive.

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When done right, tree trimming boosts both beauty and safety in your yard. But when done wrong, it can lead to long-term damage. Trust the experts at Salas Services for safe, strategic, and efficient tree care. Contact us today at (972) 413-1800 to schedule your tree trimming appointment. Let’s keep your landscape vibrant, healthy, and safe all year long.

Frequently Asked Questions

You've got questions. We've got answers.

Here are the most common questions client’s usually have for us. Still have more questions? Contact Us.

Do you provide emergency tree removal services?

Yes, we offer emergency tree removal services for situations such as storm damage, fallen trees, or hazardous trees posing an immediate risk. Contact us at [phone number] as soon as possible in case of emergencies, and our team will prioritize your situation.

Can you help with obtaining permits for tree removal?

We can assist you with the process of obtaining permits for tree removal, if required. The need for permits varies based on local regulations and tree preservation ordinances. Our team will guide you through the necessary steps and provide any documentation or information needed for the permit application.

What are some signs that indicate my tree needs professional attention?

While trees are generally low-maintenance, certain signs indicate the need for professional intervention. Watch out for symptoms such as extensive dead or dying branches, sudden leaf loss, significant pest infestation, leaning or unstable tree structure, or visible signs of disease or decay. If you notice any of these issues, it's best to consult with our skilled arborists.

How do I know if a tree needs to be removed?

Several signs indicate that a tree may need to be removed, including significant structural damage, extensive disease or pest infestation, severe leaning, extensive root damage, or proximity to power lines or structures. Our professional arborists can assess the tree's health and safety to determine if removal is necessary.

How often should I trim or prune my trees?

The frequency of tree trimming or pruning depends on various factors such as tree species, age, and overall health. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have trees pruned every 3-5 years to maintain their shape, promote healthy growth, and remove any hazardous or dead branches.

What is the best time of year to plant new trees?

The ideal time to plant new trees depends on the tree species and climate. In general, spring and fall are the preferred seasons for tree planting as the weather conditions are more favorable for root establishment. However, it's best to consult with our experts who can provide guidance based on your specific location and tree species.