Whether cutting storm-damaged branches and dead limbs, regulating growth or shaping a tree for aesthetic purposes, regular trimming is important to promoting a healthy, good-looking tree.
Step 6: Trim dead branches from taller trees with the pole saw. This older maple tree has branches that have died from either damage or disease. Position yourself safely back from—and to the side of—the dead branch. Rest the blade of the pole saw outside the collar of the branch. Using a sawing motion, carefully cut through the branch. You should remove all diseased and damaged branches as well as branches that have distressed leaves from the tree. If the branches in question are too high to reach from the ground, consider hiring a professional. It is never a good idea to trim branches from a ladder.
Stand back and to the side of the branch you are cutting.
Always work from the ground when trimming or pruning trees. Never prune trees from a ladder. When cutting, always stand to the side and away from an overhead branch. If a tree requires heavy trimming or working up in a tree, a tree service professional is strongly recommended.
