What are the general rules for pruning trees?

• <div><p>There are a few general rules to follow that will help you prune your trees correctly. One of the most important rules is to prune during the correct season for the type of tree you have. Typically, <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/best-time-trim-trees.htm">pruning should be during late winter.</a> For younger trees, you should not remove more than a ⅓ of the tree's crown when pruning. Also, remember to remove dead and diseased branches first, then proceed with pruning the rest of the tree.</p></div>

What method can I use instead of tree topping?

• <div><p>A pro can guide you on the alternatives to tree topping depending on the specific issues within your trees. For example, if you’re dealing with breakage and cracks in your tree, they may suggest canopy reduction, which removes less than 25% of the tree’s limbs. If you’re dealing with lesser damage, some intentional pruning may be all you need. If you’re looking to get a clearer view through your tree, the pro may also try windowing or skirting your tree. </p></div>

Does pruning make trees stronger?

• <div><p>Yes, pruning makes trees stronger because it fosters proper growth, weight distribution, and balance of the crown. By increasing the structural integrity of the tree through pruning, it’s less likely to experience disease, pests, broken limbs, and storm damage. Pruning the right branches and limbs is key to improving a tree’s strength and balance.</p></div>

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Q: How do you make a tree fall the opposite way it is leaning?

• <div><p>For safety reasons, leaning trees are best removed by a professional, as they may often tear away from the hinge, causing you to lose control over where the tree falls. If you choose to cut down a tree leaning slightly, avoid cutting off root protrusions before you start. Make your hinge a little longer than usual by cutting it deeper (up to 30% of the diameter) and applying a wedge into the felling cut on the side the tree is leaning. Stand away from the direction the tree leans while making your felling cut.</p></div>

Q: Should I trim dead tree branches?

• <div><p>Dead tree branches should be removed, because they can cause the tree to lose nutrients. They can also make the tree more susceptible to disease and pests. Removing dead and diseased branches can help the tree recover and increase the odds of saving a dying tree. Make sure to prune the tree correctly to avoid damaging it further. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Tree Service pros in Decatur, NE

*The Angi rating for Tree Service companies in Decatur, NE is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Tree Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Tree Service companies in Decatur, NE is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Tree Service needs.

Last update on May 09, 2026

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Siouxland Stump Solutions LLC

New to Angi

Tree Stump - Remove

Serving Decatur, NE and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

We focus on providing dependable service with honest pricing. We take pride in showing up on time, providing quality service and a hassle-free experience for our customers.

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+5 more

Serving Decatur, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He did such an awesome job and did exactly what I asked. He even double checked all of his work and it was great. I will definitely be calling him again."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+2 more

Serving Decatur, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2007

Free estimates

"These guys did all that I wanted at a great price. I've read the reviews and contracted with them. They are insured and bonded and licences. VERY FRIENDLY GUYS."

+136

Recommended by70%of homeowners

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RKS Property Services

New to Angi

Tree Removal

Serving Decatur, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

We have over 10 years of experience in the business. Robert Limley pride's his company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. He will do his best to be an expert in the trade and will do his best to keep you as educated as he can on your particular task or project. He looks forward to earning your business!

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Landscape

New to Angi

Tree RemovalTree Removal - For BusinessTree Stump - Remove+2 more

Serving Decatur, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2024

Quality over quantity is the most important thing that matters when doing a job. It's about the customer service.

Serving Decatur, NE and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Life long resident of Omaha, I take pride in my community and my work reflects that. I am very detail oriented, both in the execution of the job and cleaning up afterwards. The clients satisfaction is my number one priority and I strive to attain that with a professional attitude all times. Call Justin Wise with Whole House Handyman today!

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Tree Service questions, answered by experts

For safety reasons, leaning trees are best removed by a professional, as they may often tear away from the hinge, causing you to lose control over where the tree falls. If you choose to cut down a tree leaning slightly, avoid cutting off root protrusions before you start. Make your hinge a little longer than usual by cutting it deeper (up to 30% of the diameter) and applying a wedge into the felling cut on the side the tree is leaning. Stand away from the direction the tree leans while making your felling cut.

There are a few general rules to follow that will help you prune your trees correctly. One of the most important rules is to prune during the correct season for the type of tree you have. Typically, pruning should be during late winter. For younger trees, you should not remove more than a ⅓ of the tree's crown when pruning. Also, remember to remove dead and diseased branches first, then proceed with pruning the rest of the tree.

A pro can guide you on the alternatives to tree topping depending on the specific issues within your trees. For example, if you’re dealing with breakage and cracks in your tree, they may suggest canopy reduction, which removes less than 25% of the tree’s limbs. If you’re dealing with lesser damage, some intentional pruning may be all you need. If you’re looking to get a clearer view through your tree, the pro may also try windowing or skirting your tree.

Dead tree branches should be removed, because they can cause the tree to lose nutrients. They can also make the tree more susceptible to disease and pests. Removing dead and diseased branches can help the tree recover and increase the odds of saving a dying tree. Make sure to prune the tree correctly to avoid damaging it further.

Yes, pruning makes trees stronger because it fosters proper growth, weight distribution, and balance of the crown. By increasing the structural integrity of the tree through pruning, it’s less likely to experience disease, pests, broken limbs, and storm damage. Pruning the right branches and limbs is key to improving a tree’s strength and balance.

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