How to Shape Ornamental Trees
Shaping ornamental trees is a great way to save on landscaping costs. Maintaining ornamental trees is one way to improve the curb appeal of a home or personal residence. There is no need to have extensive training before attempting to improve the look of existing plants and trees on the property. Here are some tips on how to shape ornamental trees.
- Create a diagram of how the tree is to look after it has been trimmed. This could be a hand drawn picture, or a photo used for inspiration from a home and garden magazine.
- Spend a few minutes and gather all the tools that will be used for shaping the trees.
- Put a gallon of water in a sink or bucket. Add a half-cup of bleach to this water and place all tools that will be used to shape the tree. This water and bleach solution helps to completely disinfect the cutting tools.
- Dry off all tools thoroughly to discourage rust from forming.
- Use tool belts or a small toolbox to keep the tools near the ladder while trimming the trees.
- Obtain a ladder and bring it right next to the tree that needs to be shaped. Local hardware stores have ladders available to rent or for purchasing.
- Start trimming the tree by clipping away dead branches and sparse areas. Branches that are on the ground and growing away from the tree should be clipped.
- Leave some space in between the exterior branches and the main branches of the tree.
First time ladder uses may feel better if a relative or friend is there to ensure that the ladder is steady. Check out books from the library or use free online gardening websites to improve upon tree trimming strategy. The topiary section should have multiple books with visual and written instructions for do it yourself gardeners.