East Hampton - With the storm that hit the East End recently and the damage many have suffered to their property it is important to note that some damage you may have encountered could have been prevented by proper pruning and tree care.

Pruning essentially involves removing tree branches to improve the health, landscape effect, or value of the tree. It is done to fix structural instability and increase the use of resources for the tree.

Below are some tips for proper pruning and remember that even though this storm is over you can ensure less future damage by pruning trees properly and safely.

Tips For Proper Pruning

 • Remember safety first! Use gloves and protective eyewear to help avoid injury and inspect the ladder before using it. Do not use ladders that have any broken or missing parts.

 • Inspect all tools before beginning. Any tools that appear damaged or broken should be repaired or replaced. Make sure all tools are clean and sharp before you begin.

 • Follow a plan. Consider the surrounding area before any cuts are made, proper planning can reduce the number of cuts and ensure safety.

 • Remove all dead, broken, diseased or otherwise problematic branches. This often is enough pruning to allow a desired amount of air and light. If the amount of wood removed is considerable (around 10 percent of the tree), further pruning may need to be delayed until the following year or even further into the future.