Caring for your trees

Preferred trees for the Kansas City area

Pruning
Pruning is important to improve or maintain the safety, health, and appearance of trees. Proper pruning involves:

• removing limbs that rub roofs or buildings, or that obstruct sidewalks, patios, or streets
• removing dead or weak limbs that pose a hazard or detract from the appearance of the tree
• removing limbs that are insect-infested or diseased
• creating better structure to reduce the potential for storm damage from wind and ice
• thinning the canopy to increase light penetration and general tree health
• improving the shape and beauty of the tree
• removing limbs damaged by wind or ice
• shaping young trees so that they grow in a proper form

Improper pruning can lead to tree decay, disease or death. 

Tree Removal
Removal should be considered a last resort. However, tree removal may be necessary when the tree is: 

• dead or dying
• considered hazardous
• causing an obstruction that can't be corrected through pruning
• considered hazardous
• crowding or causing harm to other trees or buildings
• located in an area where it interferes with new construction

Planting New Trees 
Properly selected and maintained trees can: 

• improve the natural beauty and the value of your home
• provide flowers and fall colors
• provide shade and wind break, which can reduce home energy costs
• increase privacy
• reduce noise pollution (100 ft. width of trees can absorb 6-8 decibels of sound intensity)

Click here for a guide to preferred trees for the Kansas City area. 

Trees Protect and Improve our Environment by:

• absorbing CO2 and producing oxygen (an acre of trees produces enough oxygen to keep 18 people alive)
• trapping and absorbing certain air pollutants
• reducing surface temperatures
• providing natural habitats for various animals