Why and when to trim or prune a tree
Tree pruning is not just about appearances. Removing dead branches can lower the chance of limbs coming down in a storm. Clearing limbs away from a roof or siding can help protect the house. Trimming branches that hang over sidewalks or streets keeps the way clear for people walking by.
Structural pruning on young trees is worth asking about. Shaping a tree while it is small is usually simpler than correcting problems once it is fully grown.
Omaha averages about 135 days a year with a low at or below freezing, and about 27 inches of snow. Heavy, wet snow on branches that still have their leaves has caused serious tree damage in the metro before. Keeping a tree well-pruned and free of weak branch structure is one way to reduce that risk.
Why topping is not a good option
Topping, which means cutting the main stem or large branches back to stubs, is not an approved tree care practice, according to the Nebraska Forest Service. Its storm advice says the same thing: never top trees.
If a contractor suggests topping, that is worth noting when you compare estimates.
Bagworms and timing
UNL Extension says bagworms can seriously stress or even kill junipers, arborvitae, spruce, and pine. Spraying is effective from late May to mid-June. By late August, spraying no longer works, so timing matters. If you are seeing bagworm damage, let the contractor know when you call so they can advise on whether treatment is still an option.
The street tree strip and who is responsible
In Omaha, homeowners are responsible for maintaining the trees in the right-of-way strip between the sidewalk and the curb, including structural pruning and picking up fallen branches. That responsibility sits with you even though the city owns the land.
Check with Omaha Forestry (402-444-5925) before removing or pruning a street tree. A quick call before tree cutting in that strip can save trouble later.
Power lines are OPPD's responsibility
Homeowners should not prune branches over power lines. That work takes specialized training. OPPD trims or removes trees that interfere with its lines. If a tree is touching or hanging over a power line, call OPPD rather than hiring a contractor to handle it.
If a contractor needs to work near the service wire running from the pole to your house, OPPD can temporarily disconnect it. Call several days ahead. OPPD forestry: 402-536-4131.
How to choose tree trimmers
Nebraska does not require arborist certification, so asking the right questions matters. Ask whether the contractor holds ISA or Nebraska Arborists Association certification. You can verify an ISA Certified Arborist at treesaregood.org.
Ask for certificates of liability insurance and workers' compensation, and call the insurer to confirm they are active. The City of Omaha has required a city arborist's license for paid tree work. Ask to see it, and confirm with the city.
Nebraska contractors must register with the Nebraska Department of Labor. You can search at dol.nebraska.gov. The BBB of the Midwest Plains, with an office in Omaha, is another place to check. Get more than one estimate, get the scope of work in writing, and do not pay in full before the job is done.
Frequently asked questions
How often does a tree need to be trimmed?
It depends on the species, age, and location of the tree. A contractor who sees the tree in person can give you a much better answer than any general rule.
Can tree pruning be done any time of year?
Timing can matter for some trees and some problems, like bagworms, which need spraying between late May and mid-June. Ask the contractor who comes out what they recommend for your tree.
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