Tree Trimming in Bayonne, NJ

What does tree trimming involve?

Tree trimming is the careful removal of selected branches while the tree stays standing. Depending on what the tree needs, we cut out dead and broken wood, raise the lowest limbs so you can walk and park underneath, pull branches back from the house, and thin crowded growth so wind can pass through. Every cut is made at the branch collar, the slight swelling where a limb meets the trunk, because that's where a tree seals the wound best. We don't top trees. Chopping the top off leads to weak, fast regrowth that breaks more easily later.

When does a tree need trimming?

Most yard trees benefit from a trim every three to five years. Call sooner if you notice:

• Branches rubbing the roof, gutters, or siding
• Limbs growing into the service wire running to your house
• Dead branches in the canopy, easy to spot in summer when the rest has leaves
• A tree so dense your yard stays damp and grass won't grow
• Low limbs blocking the driveway, sidewalk, or a neighbor's garage

Why do overgrown limbs cause problems?

A heavy, crowded canopy acts like a sail. When a nor'easter blows in off the water, all that leaf area catches the wind and puts huge strain on the limbs and roots. Long branches reaching over a roof are the first to snap. Dense shade also keeps bark and leaves wet, which helps diseases like anthracnose on London plane trees get worse. Dead wood left in a tree falls eventually, usually during a storm and often onto whatever is parked below. Trimming ahead of time costs far less than repairing a roof.

What affects the cost of tree trimming?

The price depends on how tall the tree is, how much wood comes out, and how hard it is to reach the branches. A tree hanging over a house or garage takes more rope work than one in the open. Access matters too, since a narrow side yard means hand-carrying every branch to the chipper. Trimming several trees in one visit usually costs less per tree. The estimate is free and in writing.

Can trimming save a tree, or is it time to remove it?

Trimming can fix a lot. It takes weight off a leaning limb, removes dead wood, and opens up a crowded crown. It can't fix a rotten trunk, a deep split at the base, or roots that were badly cut. When a tree has problems like those, removal is usually the safer choice, and we'll tell you so rather than sell you a trim that won't help. For broken limbs hanging in a tree right now after a storm tears branches loose, call instead of waiting for a regular appointment.

Common questions about tree trimming

When is the best time of year to trim a tree?

Late fall through winter works well for most trees because they're dormant and you can see the branch structure clearly. Dead or dangerous limbs should come out any time of year.

Will trimming hurt my tree?

Proper cuts made in the right places don't. Trees get hurt when too much is removed at once or when they're topped. We generally take out no more than about a quarter of the living canopy in one visit.

Can I have branches from my neighbor's tree trimmed?

In general, you can trim branches that hang over your side of the property line, as long as the tree isn't harmed. It's a good idea to talk with your neighbor first, and we're happy to walk the line with both of you.

Do you trim trees near the power lines?

We can clear branches from the service wire to your house once the utility has been contacted. Limbs touching the main lines on the street have to be handled by PSE&G's crews.