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The Ultimate Guide to Tree and Plant Trimming for a Healthy Landscape in Lincoln, NE

Proper tree and plant trimming is essential for maintaining a healthy, vibrant landscape. Regular pruning promotes growth, prevents disease, and enhances the overall beauty of your outdoor space. Whether you have ornamental shrubs, fruit trees, or towering maples, knowing when and how to trim can make all the difference. In this guide, Your Green Expectations shares expert tips on tree and plant trimming in Lincoln, NE.

Colby Digilio, Owner of Green Expectations in Lincoln, NE

Why Trimming Is Important

Trimming isn’t just about aesthetics—it plays a crucial role in plant health and safety. Here’s why regular pruning is essential:

  • Encourages Healthy Growth – Removing dead or diseased branches allows plants to direct energy toward new, healthy growth.

  • Prevents Disease and Pest Infestation – Infected branches can spread disease throughout the tree. Pruning improves air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal infections.

  • Enhances Aesthetic Appeal – A well-maintained landscape looks tidy and inviting, boosting curb appeal.

  • Improves Safety – Overgrown branches can become hazardous during storms, potentially damaging property or injuring people.

Best Times to Trim Trees and Plants

Timing is everything when it comes to trimming. Different plants require different pruning schedules:

  • Winter (Dormant Season): Ideal for most trees and shrubs, as it encourages vigorous spring growth.

  • Early Spring: Good for shaping flowering shrubs before new buds appear.

  • Summer: Light trimming can help control growth, but avoid heavy pruning in hot weather.

  • Fall: Generally not recommended, as new cuts may not heal before winter freezes set in.

Colby Digilio, Owner of Green Expectations in Lincoln, NE
Colby Digilio, Owner of Green Expectations in Lincoln, NE

Tree Trimming Tips

For healthy, strong trees, follow these expert pruning techniques:

  • Remove Dead and Diseased Branches – Always cut back weak or damaged limbs to prevent disease spread.

  • Thin Out Overcrowded Branches – Improve air circulation by trimming branches that cross over each other.

  • Maintain Proper Shape – Avoid cutting more than 25% of a tree’s canopy at once to prevent stress.

  • Use the Right Tools – Invest in sharp pruning shears, loppers, and saws for clean cuts that heal faster.

Shrub and Plant Pruning Tips

Shrubs and smaller plants require different techniques to keep them thriving:

  • Shear flowering shrubs after they bloom to encourage next season’s growth.

  • Trim overgrown perennials in late fall or early spring to keep them healthy.

  • Avoid cutting too close to the main stem, as this can damage plant health.

Common Trimming Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, improper pruning can harm your plants. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

  • Over-Pruning: Cutting too much at once weakens trees and shrubs.

  • Topping Trees: Removing the top portion of a tree can lead to weak, unstable growth.

  • Ignoring Deadwood: Leaving dead branches increases disease risk and can create hazards.

Some of our work – Tree and Plant Trimming

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Green expectations is a great mowing company Colby and his crew get the job done and pay attention to to details make yards look amazing thanks for what u do

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Customer

Green Expectations is hands down the best lawn care in Lincoln. Always on time and very professional. Colby and his crew go above and beyond to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

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