Tree Trimming Service Near Me: How To Trim Large Tree Branches If you’re trimming heavy tree limbs, you have to be extra careful not to damage the bark or interfere with the tree’s natural healing response. Doing it right is actually no more difficult than doing it wrong, particularly if you think ahead to how much work it would take to remove a dead tree! Proper pruning of large tree limbs involves three cuts: Cut #1, Notch Cut: Cut a small notch in the bottom of the limb, 2-3 feet away from the trunk, and about a quarter of the way through. This notch will keep the bark from splitting when you make the next cut. Cut #2, Relief Cut: Just outside the notch, make a relief cut completely through the branch. This removes the weight of the branch so that you can make your final cut without the branch splitting and falling. Cut #3, Final Cut: Your final cut should be right where the branch collar (that swollen bump) transitions to smooth branch bark. Follow the slant of the branch collar. Read the full post here: https://on.treecarehq.com/sOs Contact Steadfast Tree Care Richmond to schedule free estimates for arborist tree services including tree trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, land clearing, storm cleanup, and emergency tree service.