Get matched with top tree service pros in Camdenton, MO

Generally, you’ll want to prune back the trunk by 1 to 2 feet each year to promote bushy growth. Doing so concentrates vegetative buds closer to the bottom of the tree, where you can easily harvest fruit. For side shoots that are a year old, leave at least six leaves. 

Never remove more than 30% of a tree’s foliage during pruning—even if your tree is really overgrown. Removing this much foliage at a time could kill your tree.

Since overwatering can harm mature trees just as much as a lack of water, it’s important to know the signs of an overwatered tree. If your tree’s leaves are yellowing, wilting, or dropping leaves, it’s likely that you’re overwatering. Other common signs include rotting, fungi, soggy soil, soft or peeling bark, falling leaves, and brittle roots. 

If you realize that you’ve been overwatering your mature tree, stop watering and give the soil time to dry out. Then moving forward, increase time between watering sessions. 

Most tree surgeons cost around $100 per hour or between $70 and $200 per hour for their services. You might get flat fees for more straightforward services, like a tree assessment, tree removal, stump grinding, and one-off treatments, but many times, treatments for tree diseases or pests will be charged based on an hourly rate or a per-visit rate. Since the cost of a tree surgeon can vary widely, it’s best to speak with an arborist near you to get an idea of what your particular issue will cost to correct.

Peach trees grow to be about 25 feet, so keep this in mind for pruning as well. If you plan to DIY, you’ll need to be comfortable working on a ladder. Without pruning, peach tree branches can sprawl nearly as wide as the tree grows tall, so make sure to plan pruning sessions at least once per year in the spring for controlled growth. And if you’re working on a ladder, be sure to follow all safety precautions, especially if you’ll be dealing with falling branches.