Tree & Shrub Care
Services
Tree & Shrub Care
Trees and shrubs are long-term assets in any landscape, providing shade, structure, and seasonal interest. Proper pruning and care preserve their health, safety, and beauty. The Other Side LLC provides expert tree and shrub trimming, pruning, and maintenance services across Columbia, MO to promote structural integrity and plant longevity.
Why Tree & Shrub Care Matters
Trees and shrubs require periodic attention to remove deadwood, shape growth, and reduce risks from weak or crossing branches. Correct pruning improves airflow and light penetration, lowers disease pressure, and encourages strong scaffold formation in young trees. Neglected shrubs can become overgrown and crowded, leading to reduced flowering and poor health.
Key Benefits
Enhanced plant health and longevity
Reduced risk of falling limbs and property damage
Improved flowering and fruiting for ornamental species
Better sightlines and improved aesthetics
Early detection and treatment recommendations for pests and diseases
Our Tree & Shrub Services
Pruning and Trimming
Structural pruning for trees, thinning, and rejuvenation pruning for shrubs.
Small tree Trimming
Removal of dead or hazardous limbs, crown thinning, and shaping.
Shrub Maintenance
Regular shaping and selective pruning to maintain health and form.
Hazard Evaluation
Identification of weak limbs, trunk defects, or disease symptoms and recommended actions.
Removal Referrals
For large tree removals or hazardous trees, we coordinate with trusted arbor contractors when a full removal is required.
Pruning Principles We Use
Timing
Different species respond better to pruning at different times of year. We prune for plant health and flowering schedules.
Technique
Pruning cuts follow modern arboricultural standards to promote healing and avoid bark tearing.
Minimal Intervention
We remove only what’s necessary to maintain health and safety; over-pruning can stress plants.
Safety
For elevated pruning and tree work we follow safety protocols and use appropriate equipment.
Common Tree & Shrub Tasks
Crown Cleaning
Removing dead or diseased branches to improve health and appearance.
Crown Thinning
Selectively thinning branches to reduce wind resistance and allow light penetration.
Crown Reduction
Reducing overall crown size in a controlled manner to limit stress to the plant.
Rejuvenation Pruning
Cutting back overgrown shrubs to encourage new, vigorous growth.
Clearance Pruning
Removing branches that interfere with buildings, walkways, or driveways.
When to Prune
- Spring-flowering shrubs and trees: Prune right after flowering to allow buds to set for next season.
- Summer-flowering and ornamental shrubs: Late winter to early spring pruning encourages spring growth.
- Hazard or dead branch removal: At any time for safety reasons.
Safety and Equipment
We use the right tools for the job — hand pruners, loppers, poles, and small saws for shrubs and small tree pruning. For elevated work or larger limbs, we follow safety protocols. We assess site conditions and provide referrals for larger tree removals when specialized rigging and equipment are required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should shrubs and trees be pruned?
It depends on species and desired form. Many shrubs benefit from annual light pruning while most established trees require pruning every 3–5 years for maintenance. Young trees may need formative pruning annually for the first few years.
Will pruning hurt my tree?
When done correctly, pruning improves tree health and structure. Improper cuts or excessive pruning can stress the tree, which is why professional technique matters.
Do you handle large tree removals?
We perform trimming and small tree work. For large removals or trees requiring heavy rigging, we coordinate with trusted arboriculture specialists to ensure safe removal.
Can pruning increase flowering?
For many ornamental shrubs, pruning after flowering or at the correct time of year can improve flowering the following season. Timing varies by species.
What signs indicate a diseased tree?
Visible symptoms include significant dieback, fungal growths, cankers, oozing sap, or sudden leaf loss. Our team can assess and recommend an appropriate course of action, including mitigation or specialist referral.
How We Work with You
Getting Started
01
Call (573) 808-1871 to schedule an assessment for your trees and shrubs.
02
Receive an itemized pruning plan and timeline.
03
Approve the work and schedule at a convenient time.
Why Choose The Other Side LLC
Our crews are trained to respect plant health and structure while also prioritizing safety for property and people. We bring a local perspective to timing and species-specific care appropriate for Columbia, MO.
Contact
For pruning, shrub shaping, or tree structure evaluations, call (573) 808-1871 or request a service estimate. We’ll help maintain healthy, safe, and attractive trees and shrubs on your property.