Tree Pruning Service in Virginia

Tree Pruning is one of the most common practices to ensure proper tree health.

Expert Tree Maintenance Backed by Decades of Local Experience

Tree pruning is the most common—and arguably the most important—type of tree maintenance. But it’s far more than simply cutting large branches. Proper pruning protects tree health, improves safety, and enhances beauty, while improper cuts can lead to lasting damage.

At Truetimber Arborists, we’ve spent over 25 years providing safe, responsible pruning for trees across Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield, Midlothian, Goochland, Mechanicsville, and throughout Central Virginia. We follow the highest industry standards, use the latest climbing techniques, and bring a deep understanding of local trees to every job.

We don’t just trim trees—we care for your entire landscape, including shrubs and other plants, using proper pruning techniques to preserve both beauty and health.

Whatever the reason for pruning a tree, the practice should be done with an understanding of how the tree responds to each cut. Improper pruning can cause damage that will last for the duration of the tree’s existence. Poor pruning can even hasten the decline or death or our trees.

Each of Truetimber’s employees has been trained in proper pruning technique. The cutting is done in a way that meets the industry standard (ANSI A300 Pruning Standard), and the movement of the arborist within the canopy of the tree is done in a way that minimizes the impact of the process.

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Why Tree Pruning Matters

tree pruning service Unlike forest trees that thrive with natural pruning and ideal conditions, urban and suburban trees face challenges: compacted soils, limited root zones, and proximity to people, structures, and utilities. Because of these stressors, regular and strategic pruning becomes essential to avoid harm to your trees.

The benefits of tree pruning include:

Improving tree structure and stability in new growth
Removing dead branches to prevent decay and disease
Preventing harmful insect infestations
Promoting healthy growth of the tree’s limbs and new branches
Enhancing sunlight and air circulation
Shaping the tree for safety or aesthetics
Protecting property from branch overhang

Even healthy trees must be pruned properly to avoid decay, disease, and the accumulation of dead wood. Taking care of your trees and investing in proper pruning means decreasing the risk of removal down the line.

Whether you’re looking to reduce risk, improve appearance, or preserve the long-term health of your trees, Truetimber Arborists can help you do it right.

Proper Pruning Techniques

Every tree is different. That’s why our pruning approach is tailored to your tree’s species, age, condition, and your overall goals for the property. Our team also considers the unique requirements of different plant species. We apply expert pruning techniques across all vegetation—whether trees, shrubs, or ornamental plants—to ensure the best results for your landscape.

All of our arborists are trained in proper pruning methods and follow ANSI A300 Pruning Standards—widely recognized as the benchmark for safe, effective tree care. We understand how each cut impacts the long-term health of a tree.

Poor pruning can shorten a tree’s lifespan or weaken its structure from the trunk up to the branches. We take the opposite approach: promoting longevity, stability, and natural beauty with every cut. When working with young trees, we carefully maintain a single leader for optimal form and healthy growth.

How Do We Prune Trees?

We provide a full range of pruning services for trees of all sizes:

Crown Cleaning: Remove dead, diseased, or broken limbs
Crown Thinning: Reduce density to improve light and airflow
Crown Raising: Lift lower branches for clearance over walkways, structures, or roads
Crown Reduction: Reduce overall size while maintaining desired shape
Structural Pruning: Improve strength and growth patterns for young or mature trees
Storm Damage Pruning: Remove damaged limbs and restore shape after high winds

Our services also include selective pruning to maintain tree structure, remove crossing limbs, and shape growth. We use the right tools for each job: shears for small shoots and buds, lopping shears for large branches, and saws for large limbs. For large pruning cuts, we follow the three-cut method—starting with an undercut, followed by a second cut to remove most of the top branch, and finishing with a final cut just outside the branch collar to prevent decay and preserve healthy wood.

No Spurs. No Harm. Just Expert Tree Work.

When pruning requires climbing, we use non-invasive techniques to protect the tree.

Unlike some companies that use spurs or spikes—which puncture and damage bark—we access the canopy using only ropes and harnesses. Our skilled climbers move carefully and intentionally, contacting the tree only with their hands and the soles of their shoes.

That means your tree remains healthy and uninjured throughout the process.

When Is the Best Time to Prune Trees?

Pruning timing is critical and varies by species and seasonal cycles. The best time to prune many trees is during winter or early spring, when trees are still dormant and before new buds and branches begin to grow. This helps trees recover quickly and direct energy into new spring growth.

Fall can also be a suitable time for pruning in some cases, particularly to address storm-damaged branches or to prepare the tree for colder seasons. However, it’s important to avoid pruning certain species in fall, as open wounds may attract pests or diseases.

For example:

Spring-flowering trees should be pruned after they bloom to avoid removing buds.
Oaks and pines should be pruned during disease-resistant times.
Fruit trees benefit from late winter pruning to encourage flowering and fruiting.

We tailor every pruning schedule to your tree’s biology and seasonal needs.

From Roots to Canopy—Full-Scale Tree Care

In addition to what’s happening in the canopy, we focus on what’s happening at ground level—ensuring proper spacing, soil health, and safe clearance. Our approach considers each tree’s placement, surrounding conditions, and natural growth habits.

Why Virginia Chooses Truetimber Arborists for Tree Care

Serving Richmond and Beyond Since 1998

We’ve earned our reputation as Central Virginia’s trusted, home-grown tree care provider.

Certified Arborists, Local Expertise

Our team understands the native trees, weather patterns, and soil conditions that affect growth and health.

Fully Trained Crews, Industry Standards

Every cut aligns with best practices to ensure safety, minimal wounding, and long-term tree health.

Relationship-Driven Approach

We take pride in the people we serve—earning 100+ five-star reviews and the trust of countless repeat clients.

Honest Recommendations, No Pressure

We never push unnecessary services. Our goal is to do what’s best for your trees, your property, and your peace of mind.

Our Tree Pruning Service Area

We proudly offer tree pruning services throughout the Richmond metro and Central Virginia, including:

Ready for Healthier, Safer, Better-Looking Trees?

Tree pruning is both an art and a science—and Truetimber has mastered both. Whether you need a one-time visit or ongoing maintenance, we deliver skilled, respectful, and effective care.