1.      Promote Lower Maintenance Properties

Certain tree and shrub types require more pruning, applications and maintenance than others.  Install disease-resistant varieties to eliminate disease issues.  Plant grasses and smaller shrub varieties in foundation beds to minimize shrub pruning.

2.      Plant Smaller Trees

Smaller trees are less expensive, establish quicker and have less planting stress.  Often, a $300 tree is the same size as a $700 tree in 2-3 years.

3.      Prune During the Winter

The dormant season is the best time to prune and often can be at a volume rate.

4.      Prune Young Trees

Training younger trees reduces the need for future pruning and can reduce future pruning budgets.

5.      Think Long-Term

Prioritizing “immediate” short-term needs often wastes the most money.  Most homeowner requests and complaints only involve their immediate space and do not reflect long-term planning.