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Pruning trees is important for several reasons. It improves tree health and strength by removing dead, diseased, or unwanted branches, which in turn encourages new growth and can help treat disease. For fruit trees, proper pruning can lead to a larger and better-quality harvest. Pruning also enhances safety by removing weak limbs that could break and fall, potentially causing injury or property damage, especially during storms. Beyond these functional benefits, pruning can also improve a tree's appearance. To ensure pruning is done correctly for the tree's long-term health, consider hiring a professional.

It is possible to cut down a tree on your property yourself, but it is generally not recommended unless specific conditions are met. You should only consider this project if the tree is small (e.g., under 4-5 inches in diameter and short enough that you don't need a ladder to reach the branches), and you are experienced in handling a chainsaw. The tree must also be located far from any power lines, fences, homes, or other structures. Even for small trees, the work can be dangerous, and it's always advisable to have a spotter to ensure the tree falls correctly and no branches fall on you.

For any tree that is large, requires a ladder to access, or is near electrical lines or structures, you should always hire a professional. Attempting to remove a large tree yourself is extremely dangerous, poses a risk of serious injury, and could result in significant damage to your property.

Before any tree removal, it's also important to check your local and state regulations to ensure the tree is not historic or otherwise protected by your city.

Generally, you should prune around 20% of an apple tree’s growth—and never more than 30%. This means that if you have a severely overgrown tree, it can take a few seasons to prune it back enough to produce the healthiest fruit. 

If you’re dealing with a newly planted or juvenile tree, hold off on pruning beyond the initial shaping. Wait at least a couple of seasons into fruit production since pruning can increase the number of water sprouts and unproductive foliage.

Cutting down a dead tree is always strongly advisable. Aside from being an eyesore, a dead tree can be extremely hazardous, especially when it’s near people or structures. Even if the tree isn’t near your home, it can still harbor pests and diseases that can potentially spread to nearby plants and homes.