Pruning and trimming

Pruning vs. Tree pruning: All the differences

August 23, 2023 by Geneviève Sergerie Forest

Taking care of the trees on your property is one of your responsibilities as a homeowner or commercial building owner.

When a tree is threatening and poses a safety risk to passers-by, it’s your duty to take the necessary steps to prevent anyone from being hurt.

Are we talking about pruning or trimming?

In this article, we clarify the issue for you.

Pruning definition

Pruning is an old term no longer really used in arboriculture. It has now been replaced by pruning.

The only time we can use the term correctly is when we’re talking about cutting the gourmands.

Gourmands are secondary branches that develop on the main branches of a tree.

It’s best to cut them back, as they unnecessarily deplete the tree by redirecting sap to these new branches.

In the case of
fruit trees
the gourmands are not productive and you won’t get any new fruit from these branches. That’s why they need to be pruned.

Following pruning, your tree will gain in vigor, as its energy and sap will no longer be used to grow gourmands.

The pruner is the person who removes the suckers from a tree, but like the term pruning, it’s no longer used today. The correct term is ” pruner”.

So if you use the term “pruning”, the only operation carried out on the tree must be the removal of the suckers.

Otherwise, we use the term “pruning”.

Pruning definition

Pruning is therefore the exact term used by professionals. The
International Society of Arboriculture of Quebec
(SIAQ) defines pruning as “the technique of trimming, reducing or removing branches, twigs, shoots, roots, flowers or fruit from a plant”.

There are many reasons to carry out pruning work, and there are different types of pruning.

When a tree, or some of its branches, become a danger to the safety of others, this is called safety pruning.

Attention

Note that to ensure that your pruning work is safe, you need to use the services of a professional pruner.

The people who work in this profession have undergone appropriate training, enabling them to carry out pruning using the right techniques and, above all, in complete safety.

The different types of pruning

Safety pruning

Probably the best known, safety pruning allows you to cut dead branchesWe’ll even take care of any branches damaged by strong winds or diseased branches, to prevent them from breaking off themselves and injuring someone or damaging a structure, which could get you into trouble.

Thinning pruning

If a tree is overshadowing your property, but you don’t want to cut it down, you can ask a specialist to carry out thinning pruning. Certain branches will be skilfully trimmed to allow more light into your home.

Sanitation pruning

Following a visual inspection of your tree, you’ve noticed that it seems to be in poor condition? Sanitation pruning removes dead or diseased branches before they become a safety problem. This can also prevent disease or insect pests from spreading further.

Directional pruning

Tree pruning: is it a good idea to do it yourself?

Well, no! You shouldn’t be pruning a tree yourself, unless, of course, you’re a tree pruner yourself.

Arboriculture is a complex field, and only those with the right training can call themselves arborists, tree trimmers or tree climbers.

If you attempt to carry out pruning work, there are a number of risks involved.

Risks associated with pruning work

1- You could be electrocuted if you try to cut a branch too close to a Hydro-Québec power line. If you notice that a tree or a large branch is threatening the electrical network,
you absolutely must contact a professional
.

By filling out our form, you’ll quickly receive 3 free quotes from a licensed arborist.

You don’t want to be one of the statistics we hear about serious injuries or deaths resulting from reckless maneuvers too close to a power line. Fill in our form and let a real specialist take care of it.

2- You could be seriously injured if you don’t know how to handle a chainsaw properly. Using a chainsaw at the top of a tree can result in the loss of a limb, and you want to avoid this type of injury at all costs.

3- You could seriously injure or even kill another person. If the work is not clearly indicated, a passer-by may be in the wrong place at the same time as a huge branch falls.

It’s essential to mark out a zone on the ground to prevent accidents.

4- You could damage your tree. Without the necessary technical knowledge to prune your tree properly, you could make poor cuts that could further damage your tree.

After all, your tree is alive and kicking, and if you cut it down unnecessarily, you run the risk of a disease spreading, even though your tree was once healthy.

Arboricultural trades

If you love the outdoors, and working outdoors doesn’t scare you, perhaps you could consider a career in arboriculture?

Whether you’re an arborist, a tree pruner or even a tree climber if you’re not afraid of heights, there are various training courses available in the provinces to enable you to specialize in this field.

To work as a tree trimmer, you need to complete a 915-hour vocational diploma (DEP).

During this training, you’ll learn how to analyze each situation correctly, how to climb trees safely, how to handle tree-trimming equipment safely, and much more.

This training is offered at the following locations:

How do I choose the right pruning company?

Don’t just rely on the price you’ve been offered. Chances are, if you contact different contractors, you’ll get quite different prices.

Should I choose the most expensive bidder? Or go for the one that offers you the best price?

Listen carefully to each person you talk to.

Beautiful, good, inexpensive and paid cash? Are you sure this contractor has insurance in case he damages anything on your property? Does he really have the skills to carry out the work?

The price is exorbitant, as you are told that most of your tree will have to be pruned to make it safe again? Beware! Professional pruners know that drastically cutting down a tree can damage its health.

A competent tree trimmer will take the time to understand your needs, while taking care of the health and preservation of your tree. He’ll take the time to explain the steps needed to ensure your tree’s good health, while taking care of the safety of the surrounding environment.

It’s best to choose a contractor who’s a member of the SIAQ, so you can be sure he has the skills you need for the pruning job you’ve requested.

To ensure you receive quotes from specialized contractors, fill out the form on this page.

Soumissions Arbre takes the time to check out every company that wants to become a partner, because what we want most of all is for you to receive top-quality service.

In less than 2 minutes, you send us your information and we send you your 3 free quotes in less than 48 hours. Don’t worry, it’s simple and there’s no obligation on your part.

You can then compare the prices of the 3 bidders in your area, as well as the opinions of former customers. You’ll also have the chance to talk to each of the entrepreneurs to understand their company values.

No stress, no pressure. You take the time to do your due diligence, and if you like a contractor, you hire him.

This ensures that you hire a professional with the right values in the right place.

Price of pruning and trimming services in Quebec in 2023

March 17, 2023 by Olivier Laflèche

GET 3 FREE QUOTES FOR FELLING OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR TREES

Ask for them
from
now!

Fill in this short form to obtain
3 quotes from pros in your area

Unique ID
Last Name*
First name*
E-mail*
Phone*
Address*
Your city*
Postal code*
ZIP / Postal Code
Scheduled date*
Hidden
Need other services...
Hidden
Description of work, details etc.*
Hidden
Transaction type

By clicking on the button, I accept the Terms and Conditions.

Price of pruning and trimming services in Quebec in 2023

Your hedge is out of control and you’ve had enough of the old stump in the middle of your property, we’ve got the solution for you!

To avoid being the laughing stock of your neighborhood, opt for the services of a professional! Pruners and arborists are the people who look after your trees to ensure that they grow properly and safely.

Pruner, trimmer, arborist? Let us sort it all out for you!

To help you contact the right contractor for your needs, it’s important to differentiate their roles. The pruner removes harmful branches to make the environment safer. The arborist does the same, but goes one step further by prioritizing tree health and disease detection.

For its part, “emondeur” is a term that’s often used, even though it’s, let’s face it, a little out of date. Its role is to perform a very rudimentary tree-cutting operation. While the pruning service is more like pruning a cedar hedge, the arborist tries to do the opposite.

There’s no need to monkey around and climb your trees. Check out our prices for professional tree care services.

Are pruning and trimming the same thing?

Often confused, the two terms are distinct actions in the way tree cutting is carried out.

Pruning is the process of cutting off dead or live branches from a tree. This allows us to limit growth in width or orientate development in length. To combine business with pleasure, aesthetic work is carried out to preserve both the health and beauty of the tree.

The big difference between the two is that pruning is a much more drastic cutting technique, stripping the tree of all its branches. Unlike pruning, where the emphasis is on health and aesthetics, pruning is not necessarily the recommended option in urban environments.

A solution for every need!

Why use their tree care services?

For both pruning and trimming work, tree pruning reduces the risk of damage.

Prevent branches from breaking under the weight of snow, falling on your car in high winds or touching electrical wires.

Pruning branches eliminates the threat to the safety of people and buildings in the vicinity, thus averting a disaster. From a purely aesthetic point of view, cutting down a tree to create space and light on your land will increase the value of your property.

Still in doubt? Here’s why you need pruning and trimming:

CLEARING	WINDING
The branches growing at the top should be removed:	New shoots break through from the base, the shrub must be felled:
Limiting growth	Limiting growth
Lifeless branches	Lifeless or rotting branches
Altered branches	Branches too low
Fragile branches	Fragile branches
Harmful branches	Harmful branches

Don’t try to fly under the radar and cut down your tree yourself, as the fine can be quite hefty. This could cost you more than hiring a professional.

Maintain your trees, follow regulations and obligations in Quebec

It’s important to remember that, as the owner of a house, plex or business, you have obligations to the city regarding the upkeep of your trees.

For example:

You need a permit to cut down a tree on your property whose trunk is more than 5cm in diameter and 1.4m high.

Avoid getting into trouble! If you have any questions about trees on your property, find out what you need to know!

Cutting, pruning, felling: Everything you need to know about services in Quebec

Tree trimmers and arborists offer a wide range of services for the care of your trees and shrubs:

Don’t try to fly under the radar and cut down your tree yourself, as the fine can be quite hefty. This could cost you more than hiring a professional.

FALLING	Cutting at the base of a diseased or dangerous tree to bring it down and remove it permanently.
PRUNING/TRIMMING	Pruning the tree or shrub at the top or base.
WASHING	Removal of tree stump and roots following felling. This frees up and levels the terrain.
HAUBANAGE	Consists in solidifying the tree structure if it is unstable.
HEDGE TRIMMING	Action to maintain and promote hedge growth. The best times for pruning are generally in spring and before winter.
CLEARING / CHIPPING	Removes trees in a specific area and shreds branches. Mainly required to start the construction phase. This must be done in compliance with local regulations while maintaining an ecological balance.
INSPECTION	It is used to assess the condition of trees to determine whether and how they should be maintained.

How much does it cost to hire a tree trimmer in Quebec in 2023?

Flat rate or hourly rate? In fact, both options are possible. The choice is left to the expert’s discretion, depending on your project and needs. Depending on the service chosen, the average hourly rate is $150 to $200 for 2 men, in line with arboricultural labor standards.

SERVICES	PRICE
FALLING	250 – $325 / h 3 men
CLEARING	250 – $325 / h 3 men
WASHING	100 – $1,000 per strain
HAUBANAGE	250 – $325 / h 3 men
HEDGE TRIMMING	250 per hedge
CLEARING / CHIPPING	250 – $325 / h 3 men
INSPECTION	50 – $500 including a report

Prices include labor for 3 men, a chipper plus a truck to store the wood if necessary, and all the equipment needed to do the job.

The main factors influencing the price of pruning services

Of course, hiring a tree trimmer or arborist varies according to the service required. The total cost also depends on a number of variables, which is why it’s essential to discuss your needs with professionals.

Number of employees: The more work you do, the more men you’ll need. A minimum of 2 men is required.
Level ofexperience: It goes without saying that experienced people charge higher rates. “You have to pay for expertise!
The size of the tree: the larger and more extensive the tree, the more travel the climber has to make to reach the desired locations. Pruning also increases the number of branches to be pruned, disposed of and shredded.
Geographical location: You need to estimate the travel time between the tree and the truck. What’s more, if the tree is located in a difficult-to-reach area, on a slope or in a more risky location, there will be more equipment to install, and you’ll need to be extra careful.
The level of danger: Pruners work at height, on board a cherry picker or attached to a harness. A high level of risk generates additional costs.
Equipment used: Regular protective equipment such as helmets, goggles, gloves, boots, pants, chainsaw, cables and much more must be taken into consideration. In some situations, the use of a cherry picker or crane is required, which quickly drives up the price, from $200 to $300 an hour.
The tree’s state of health: A sick, rotten, fragile tree takes longer to prune because its strength is compromised.

To make sure you get a fair price, contact a tree trimmer to find out all your options.

Let the professionals do the work!

Whether you need to save your relationship with your neighbor, clear your pool or remove a dead tree, the tree care specialists at Tree Quotes
are at your service.

Simply fill out our form to receive 3 free quotes from professionals in your area.

If you use the services of a qualified and certified tree trimmer or arborist, you’ve got everything to gain!

GET 3 FREE QUOTES FOR FELLING OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR TREES

Fill in this short form to obtain
3 quotes from pros in your area

Unique ID
Last Name*
First name*
E-mail*
Phone*
Address*
Your city*
Postal code*
ZIP / Postal Code
Service required
Scheduled date*
Hidden
Need other services...
Hidden
Description of work, details etc.*

By clicking on the button, I accept the Terms and Conditions.

Ask for them
from
now!

Cedar hedge trimming – How much does it cost in Quebec?

December 9, 2022 by Gabryel Laflèche

GET 3 FREE QUOTES FOR FELLING OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR TREES

Ask for them
from
now!

Fill in this short form to obtain
3 quotes from pros in your area

Unique ID
Last Name*
First name*
E-mail*
Phone*
Address*
Your city*
Postal code*
ZIP / Postal Code
Scheduled date*
Hidden
Need other services...
Hidden
Description of work, details etc.*
Hidden
Transaction type

By clicking on the button, I accept the Terms and Conditions.

Hedge trimming - How much does it cost?

Maintaining your grounds has many advantages. In addition to the visual aesthetics we wish to reflect, many practices and habits are good for the health of the trees and plants we own. To ensure quality in your landscape maintenance, it may be a good idea to do business with a true professional in the field!

Cedar hedge maintenance and pruning are seasonal tasks that need to be accomplished for many reasons. In the following article, we show you the advantages of taking care of your trees, but also the need to deal with a real professional in the field!

Why trim your hedges?

There are several reasons why you may need to trim your hedges. Among the many reasons, we can mention :

Aesthetic practice. It's always nice to be able to create a layout and order the different trees and shrubs on our property.
A safety necessity. To prevent certain hedges from growing to the point of posing a risk to a window in your home, it's sometimes best to take the time to trim everything back.
A creative need! For some artists, hedge trimming is a creative exercise that allows them to share their passion for visual art while enjoying the outdoors.
For the health of hedges. Indeed, many people may not be aware of it, but hedge trimming is essential to the maintenance and development of your plants.

In short, there are a number of valid reasons, both aesthetic and otherwise, for trimming your hedges. All we have to do is set our own goals and get started… when the time is right!

When should you trim your hedges?

Although a hedge requires little maintenance, it’s important to know the right time to take action. Several factors influence when it’s worth looking into:

The age of the hedge influences frequency, so we need to prune it. Younger hedges require more intensive maintenance, as this is mainly a formative pruning operation. In other words, pruning that favors the hedge's final shape.
Maintenance pruning is the common practice when our shrubs are well established and have grown in the desired way. At this point, pruning can be done less frequently.
Usually, hedges can be pruned at two times of the year. The first time in spring, and the second towards the end of summer.
It is advisable to avoid trimming between these two times to encourage certain flowers to grow and certain birds to proliferate.

How to trim hedges

To understand how hedges can be trimmed is to understand the importance of a professional in this practice, which may be more complex than you think. Among the many things to keep in mind to ensure a harmonious and effective cut, there are :

The importance of trimming the entire length of the hedge at the same time. In fact, you can't proceed with cutting by dividing the task over several days. Pruning over several days means taking the risk of having an uneven grove.
Cut from bottom to top. This technique prevents falling branches from becoming trapped by lower branches.
The base of the hedge must be larger in circumference than the top. This positioning ensures good lighting and promotes harmonious growth.

What tools do you need to trim your hedges?

You might think that simple shears would be sufficient to make all the cuts required for our hedges, but practice calls for some more specific tools. Consider the following equipment:

For small hedges, simple shears may suffice.
For larger hedges, the use of a hedge trimmer is recommended to facilitate manoeuvring.
These instruments can run on electricity or even have a built-in battery.
The tool is also available in telescopic format, providing a certain degree of comfort when cutting, making certain taller sections of large hedges accessible.

Whether you’re using shears or a hedge trimmer, it’s advisable to keep it at the bottom of your body, to save energy and keep your arms from tiring. It’s a detail that’s easy to forget!

What does it mean to call in a professional?

Why call in someone who specializes in the field for something as trivial as the hedge trimming? It’s so simple! Simply because it will be able to…

Share your expertise and practice in hedge trimming, demonstrating superior know-how.
Carry the necessary equipment and tools for cutting hedges of any size.
Clear the hedge of weeds and unwanted shoots, easily recognizing what needs to stay and what needs to be removed.
Accurately prune the various shrubs that make up your hedge, putting his experience in the field into practice. The result will be exactly the way you want it.
As part of the service we offer, we can fertilize the hedge to nourish its roots and ensure the health and longevity of the trees.
Ensure proper tree care, by checking the health of shrubs and detecting potential diseases that could contaminate the entire plantation.
If necessary, remove a complete section of hedge if it is dead, diseased or otherwise a nuisance.
If the customer wishes to plant a new section of hedge, a grubbing will be necessary.
Provides liability for damage to your property.

And finally, how much does it cost?

There are several factors that can influence the price you pay for hedge trimming. Consider the following:

The length of your hedges. The longer and more massive they are, the more maintenance they require.
Extra work. Most hedge trimming is a basic service, and the price will be influenced by the additional work the professional has to undertake.
A basic price. Many companies have a minimum price of $250, which will increase as the scope of work expands. It's the right price for a quality service!

Do you need extra help felling a tree? We’ve got the figures for you! This article will answer any questions you may have about the price of pruning and trimming unwanted trees.

Compare 3 free tree care quotes!

Now that you know the price and services, it’s up to you to decide which of our partner companies you’d like to work with.

It’s easy, just fill out the form below to compare 3 quotes, free of charge!

GET 3 FREE QUOTES FOR FELLING OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR TREES

Fill in this short form to obtain
3 quotes from pros in your area

Unique ID
Last Name*
First name*
E-mail*
Phone*
Address*
Your city*
Postal code*
ZIP / Postal Code
Service required
Scheduled date*
Hidden
Need other services...
Hidden
Description of work, details etc.*

By clicking on the button, I accept the Terms and Conditions.

Ask for them
from
now!