How To Cut Tree Limbs That Are Too High To Reach – 7 Ways Of High Tree Branches Trimming

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Planting trees is very crucial for a pleasant environment and also for the protection of the ozone layer. Trees grow very fast and at a certain point, we will need to prune them to have a beautiful environment and prevent obstruction.
 
Besides this, some of the trees need pruning for them to grow in good health. Some of the limbs or branches that need cutting are too high that we can’t reach when standing upright. This requires the use of the best high-limb rope saw.
 
Therefore, there is a need for a better-enhanced mechanism for our environment to look better and avoid associated risks.
 
This article will highlight the best way how to cut tree limbs or branches that are too high to reach and any other relevant details of cutting them.
 

Which Is The Best Time For Cutting Off Tree Limbs And Branches?

It is a question that comes with a lot of ambiguity, but we got the correct answer for you. The best time to cut high branches and limbs is when the tree is dormant, especially in winter.
 
Mainly because the tree has few chances of contracting diseases and pest infections due to the open woods. Pest and disease can destroy the whole tree and also transmit to other trees.
 
Moreover, if the tree limbs or branches are an obstruction or act as a danger to the members of the family or your house. It is safer you remove it regardless of the season.
 
Primarily because your safety comes first and you may incur extra unplanned expenses in case the branch or the limb falls accidentally.
 

Necessary Tools for High Tree Trimming 

There are a few tools that you will need to trim the branches of a high tree safely:

  1. A tall ladder to reach the branches you need to trim.
  2. A pruning shear or a saw to cut through the branches.
  3. You will need gloves and protective eyewear to protect yourself from the leaves and branches.

If you have never trimmed the branches of a high tree before, it is essential to get professional help or advice so that you do not injure yourself.

Once you have the proper tools and safety gear, trimming the branches of a high tree is relatively easy. Just make sure to take your time and follow all safety precautions.

What To Observe When Cutting Branches Off Trees That Are Too High

After deciding to cut a tree and you are pretty sure it is safe for you, there are some critical issues that you should observe for a safe limb and branch-cutting process. Among the safety measures you should keep are;
 

Take The Right Element

Element implies the attire that you should wear to ensure that your health and body are not at stake during the process.
 
When dealing with electrical equipment like an electric saw for cutting branches, wear close-fitting clothing whose material is a poor conductor of electricity.
 
Equip yourself with an eye protector to avoid dust particles, insects, wood particles, or pine needles in your eyes. The shoes should have anti-slip soles. In case the equipment you will be using is noisy, also have ear protectors.
 

Inspect The Trees For Weakness Or Cracks Before Climbing

Cracks and lines of weakness are an indication that the tree is not capable of holding your weight. In such a situation, you can place your hands and feet on a different branch or limb or else work with a person who is on the ground to hold you if you fall.
 
Moreover, an aerial lift can remove all the trouble.
 

Avoid Improper Pruning Cut

When pruning our trees at times signifies the awaited death of the tree out of an incorrect cut. Therefore, you need to prune tree branches the right way.
 
A proper cut implies pruning the tree keenly with minimal damage for a quick healing process of the tree.
 
An example of an incorrect cut is cutting near the truck known as a flush cut or cutting too far away from the truck known as a stub cut.
 
Cutting near the truck leaves a large wound that may take longer to heal and also removes the branch collar.
 
A stub cut causes the tree to decay backwards through the centre of the root collar to the trunk of the tree, which is a slow death of the tree.
 

How To Cut Tree Limbs That Are Too High To Reach – 7 Different High Tree Branches Trimming Ways

Using A Pole Pruner

A pole pruner is an equipment that will make your cutting very simple and quick. If you are planning to purchase a pole pruner, first access the height of the branch or the limb that needs cutting.
 
Keenness is essential when accessing the height because tree branches and limbs appear to be very close to the ground when in a real sense there are not.
 
To figure this out, you can compare the height of the branch or limbs with the nearby buildings or else use a tape measure to get the real height.
 
Pole pruners came in different lengths where some can be telescopic, fixed, or have a design that you can increase the sections to make them longer.
 

Pocket Saw With A Rope

A pocket saw is simply a chain saw whose chain has a rope on both ends. With this cutting tool, you will throw the line over the limb that you are cutting then pull the rope.
 
Keep the blade in the right position then get the cutting side on the branch and get on cutting. This tool is the most convenient tool that is simple to use and very affordable.
 

Using A Pole Saw

Pole saw is a cutting tool that is preferable for diameters larger than 11/2 inches. The blade of a pole saw has a curved shape to make the cuts towards the top part of the branch or the limb.
 
The pole saw cuts by pulling it. This tool is free from pinching, which makes the cutting process hard. When you notice that the limb is moving downwards try to cut faster to avoid the limb from tearing much from the bark.
 

Ladder With A Pruner

Let us focus on cutting the limbs off the ground. In this case, you will need a sturdy ladder and a pruner. Place your ladder in a slightly slanting position. In case you are not sure of the stability of the ladder have someone to hold it for you.
 
Also, you can tie it to the tree to avoid the ladder from shifting its position. Make sure you do not place the ladder on the limb or branch that you will be pruning. With the pruner climb the tree to the specified limb and branch.
 

Rent A Bucket Lift

Furthermore, as a homeowner, you can rent a bucket lift available in your place. A bucket lift can be in a trailer type that you will have to pull with a truck or the ones that will need shipping to your doorstep.
 
The bucket lifts have different capabilities and are available in various sizes. The trailer type can lift to 40 feet.
 
After positioning it in the place that you want to use it, place the outriggers to keep it stable. You can use the pruner to reach the canopies that you want to bring down.
 
The other type is the commercial self-propelling lifts that are more enhanced and can reach up to 125 feet.
 
Nevertheless, there are some considerations that you should make before making a bucket lift choice.
 
Make sure that you can drive the shipping vehicle to the spot without hindrances such as fences or plants. Ensure that the terrain of your location is not hilly.
 

Climb The Tree Using Rope And Harness

Climbing up the tree is the first idea that pops into your mind. Though its possibility depends on the type of the tree or the structure of the limb. Most of the evergreen trees are simple to climb and do not involve a lot of risks.
 
The limbs that are too close to be together may pose some toughness while climbing and probably may need a professional climber.
 
You will need a rope system and the help of a climbing harness to prune back the ends of a branch. After climbing the tree, you will require a cutting tool such as a pruner or saw to do the main exercise.
 
If you will have to carry the cutting tool while you are climbing, place it in a position that will not destruct your hands and legs, and advisably tie it around your body.
 

Call A Professional Arborist

Some heights are too risky that they can pose a lot of risks if you are just a novice in this field. The tree can have complicated branches or limbs that have a complicated structure, and none of the above equipment can be kept in use.
 
Some terrains pose a lot of danger when using a ladder no matter how tight you tie it. Besides, some of the cutting tools might be too complex for you to use.
 
Nothing is worth your well-being, not even the tree in question. In such a situation, call a professional arborist to have them down without posing any danger.
 

Safety Tips on How to Trim Tree Branches or Limbs That Are Too High to Reach

Safety should always be the topmost priority when trimming tree branches or limbs.
 
Here are the 7 safety tips to keep in mind:
 
1. Never cut the branches or limbs while standing on a ladder. Always use a stable, level surface.
 
2. Use the appropriate equipment for the job. A chainsaw is not necessary for small branches. A handsaw or pruning shears will suffice.
 
3. Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure there are no power lines nearby that could be damaged if you drop your equipment off accidentally.
 
4. Wear gloves, goggles, and eye protection to avoid injury from flying debris.
 
5. Use a rope or belt to secure your tools, so you do not lose them if you fall.
 
6. Have someone hold the ladder for you if needed.
 
7. Never use a ladder or step stool to get onto a roof.
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q. How to Remove Branches Efficiently?

A. Fall is the best time to trim the branches because the leaves are off the trees. This allows you to see the tree’s shape and make cuts accordingly. It is also an excellent time to trim because the trees are dormant and can better withstand pruning.

To remove branches efficiently:

  1. Begin by cutting off any dead or diseased wood.
  2. Cut back any crossing or rubbing branches.
  3. Thin out the tree’s interior to allow light and air to reach all parts of the tree.
  4. Cut the tree branches at a 45-degree angle above a bud facing outward.

Final Thoughts

Planting trees is crucial, and trimming the branches is also very vital. The best way to cut your branches and limbs is to ensure you have the best tool with you.
 
When choosing the cutting, observe the height of the tree and its diameter. Pick a well-performing tool and ensure that you keep the necessary safety measures.
 
Wear the right elements and take keen if you will be climbing the tree. In case the tree branches and limbs seem to be complicated, make a call to a professional.
 
As simple as the task appears to be, some techniques are vital in the process. It is better to incur the extra cost but keep you keep everyone else safe.

You May Also be Interested to Read the:

1. 13+ Best Tools For Cutting Tree Branches For Lawn Care And Tree Services Professional
2. 21 Basic Woodworking & Carpentry Hand Tools List For Beginners Projects
3. 21 Essential Woodworking & Carpentry Power Tools For Beginners Projects
To Learn More About Woodworking and Carpentry Visit at iSaw Guide Home
Robert Terry

Robert Terry is a specialist author at isawguide.com. He is very enthusiastic about woodworking and carpentry. His writings have been published in the wood magazine before. His passion for working with wood and woodworking tools lets him explore many pieces of informative content and resources. Besides working as a creative writer, he loves to share his skills and experiences with the woodworking and carpentry community.

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