Remove What Weakens the Tree

Structural pruning in Lakeland removes hazardous branches and improves long-term stability without over-cutting.

Trees in Lakeland grow fast, and not all of that growth adds strength. Branches that cross, rub, or attach at narrow angles create weak points that split under wind or weight. Structural pruning removes these problem limbs while the tree is young or before defects become dangerous. The result is a canopy that resists storm damage, distributes weight evenly, and continues to grow in a way that does not threaten your roof or power lines.

The Tree Lady Company performs structural pruning using ANSI A300 standards, which focus on removing hazardous, weak, or poorly structured branches without taking so much that the tree loses its ability to produce energy or defend itself. The arborist identifies co-dominant stems, included bark, and dead or declining wood that should come out. For shrubs, hand pruners and loppers are used to maintain natural structure and avoid the blunt cuts that lead to disease and water loss. The goal is to set the tree up for healthy growth over the next several years, not just make it look neat for a few weeks.

If you want to reduce risk and extend the life of your trees in Lakeland, contact The Tree Lady Company to schedule a structural pruning evaluation.

What Gets Removed and Why

The arborist starts by walking the canopy and marking branches that compete for the same space, grow at angles that cannot support their own weight, or show signs of decay or disease. In Lakeland, where storms are frequent, removing these weak points early reduces the chance that a branch will tear off and take healthy wood with it. The pruning is done with hand tools and pole saws to make clean cuts that heal quickly.

After the work is complete, you will notice better air flow through the canopy, less rubbing between limbs, and a more balanced shape that does not lean heavily to one side. The tree will also be better prepared to handle high winds and heavy rain without splitting or shedding large branches. Structural pruning encourages healthy growth and reduces the need for emergency tree service after every storm.

The Tree Lady Company follows a three to five year pruning cycle, which means the work is spaced out to avoid stressing the tree while keeping it structurally sound over time. Over-pruning weakens trees and increases the chance of disease, so the arborist removes only what needs to go. This approach supports disease resistance, reduces desiccation, and keeps the tree stable without sacrificing canopy density or shade.

Homeowners often ask how much will be removed, whether the tree will look bare afterward, and how soon they will see results. Here are the answers that come up most often.

Most People Want to Know This First

The arborist removes only the branches that create structural problems or safety hazards, typically no more than fifteen to twenty-five percent of the canopy. The tree should still look full and healthy when the work is done.
How much of the tree gets removed during structural pruning?
The arborist prunes to improve balance and stability, so the tree should look more even, not less. If one side is overloaded or leaning, selective removal on that side can reduce weight and improve symmetry.
Will the tree look uneven after pruning?
New growth starts within a few weeks in Lakeland's climate, but it takes a full growing season to see noticeable canopy development. The goal is not fast regrowth but strong, well-attached limbs that last for years.
How soon will the tree grow back?
Weak unions and crossing branches get larger and heavier, which increases the chance of failure during storms. Waiting also means bigger cuts, longer healing times, and more stress on the tree.
What happens if I wait too long to prune?
Hand pruners and loppers allow the arborist to make precise cuts that follow the natural structure of the shrub. Power tools create blunt cuts that damage tissue, increase disease risk, and cause the plant to lose water faster.
Why use hand pruners instead of power tools on shrubs?

If your trees are growing unevenly, showing weak unions, or dropping branches after storms, structural pruning from The Tree Lady Company can reduce risk and improve long-term health. Learn more by reaching out to the team in Lakeland.