How to Shape / Trim Ornamental Trees

[climbingmonkey24]

I got the impression that the client is reasonable about it.

They said they aren’t looking for any fancy square or rectangle shapes etc. just what I described in the original post.

 

[southsoundtree]

Ask them how much they expect maintenance costs to be after you try to keep the tree from its natural growth form.


Square and rectangle are Easy.

Look at what landscapers do to shrubs.

I spend too much time (sorta) trying to fix people shearing trees, like Japanese maple along walkways... "just cut it back/ shear it back" mentality.

 

[Birdyman88]

one person and a joint and a ladder could bust that out in a few days

This made me think of Bob Ross for some reason. I say go for it, and just have fun.

“All you need to paint prune is a few tools, a little instruction, and a vision in your mind.”
― Bob Ross

 

[colb]

A structurally compromised tree without lift access is a much worse job to underbid. Worst case, you bore yourself silly in the summer heat.

 

[SeanRuel]

An hour per tree seems about right to my eye