Limbing a Healthy Tree*

(Question)

We have a 25-year-old crimson king maple tree, about 30 feet tall, in our Toronto back yard. Should all trees be limbed from time to time to keep them healthy? If so, what is the best time of year?

(Answer)

Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners.

Mature trees can sometimes need some work done on them if there are dead branches, the tree has been damaged by weather or they pose a threat to their surroundings. If the tree is healthy and has no dead limbs or issues it does not necessarily need pruning. One issue to consider if limbs are removed is the natural shape of the tree and balancing the weight. This can be very complicated to get right and definitely requires the services of a qualified arborist. It is not safe for untrained people to do this work.

If you are concerned that your tree may be at risk of causing or receiving damage or you would like to have it assessed then we would recommend contacting ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Ontario website. They have a search engine for finding Arborists here in Toronto and give adivce on how to select an arborist.

https://www.isaontario.com/content/find-certified-arborist