Let’s get something straight right away. “Small” tree usually means a tree under 30 feet tall, ornamental trees, younger trees, maybe crepe myrtles, redbuds, smaller fruit trees.
This isn’t about hacking off limbs from a 60-foot oak leaning over your garage. This is about regular care for trees that are still manageable from the ground or a ladder, without heavy rigging or bucket trucks. But just because it’s a small tree doesn’t mean it’s a small job, not if you want it done right.
What’s the Real Cost?
In Kansas City, you’re typically looking at $150 to $350 to properly prune a small tree. It could be a little less. It could be more if the tree is oddly shaped, in a bad spot, or hasn’t been touched in 10 years.
Factors that affect cost:
- Height and size (duh, even “small” has a range)
- Access (tight corners, fences, power lines nearby = more time)
- Health of the tree (diseased or dying trees need more care)
- Type of pruning (thinning, crown cleaning, deadwood removal, shaping they all take different time/skill.
Some companies charge per hour. Some give flat rates. At Omar Tree Service LLC, we assess everything on-site, no guessing over the phone. We don’t do the “starts at $49” bait and switch. You’ll know the price before we cut anything.
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Why You Need to Prune Small Trees
People skip this step. A lot. Or they say, “It’s still small, I’ll wait a few more years.”
That’s a mistake. Here’s why:
- Early pruning sets the structure. If you wait, the tree forms bad habits like co-dominant stems, rubbing branches, or low limbs that become hazards.
- Removes dead or weak branches that can break in storms or suck energy from the tree.
- Keeps the tree healthy. Pruning improves airflow and light, reduces the risk of disease, and promotes better growth.
- Looks better. You may not care now, but when it overgrows your walkway or roof, you’ll wish you had shaped it.
Bottom line: Small trees are cheap to prune when you stay on top of them. Wait too long, and you’re paying big later, or worse, you lose the tree.
When Should You Do It?
Most small tree pruning happens in late winter to early spring, before new growth starts. But it depends on the species.
- Deciduous trees (like redbuds, oaks, elms): prune late winter
- Flowering trees (like dogwoods or crape myrtles): prune right after flowering
- Evergreens: usually mid-summer
We avoid pruning during extreme heat or droughts. And never prune when the tree is stressed unless it’s for safety or health (dead or broken limbs).
How It’s Done (If Done Right)
Pruning isn’t just cutting stuff that looks out of place. It’s targeted. Intentional. Strategic. Here’s how we handle small trees:
- Assessment: Look at the tree’s structure, growth direction, and weak spots.
- Start with dead, diseased, or damaged limbs: those go first.
- Thin out crossing or rubbing branches
- Shape the canopy lightly, focusing on balance and future growth
- Clean cuts only, we cut at the branch collar, not flush, not stubbed. That’s what helps with healing.
We never use wound paint or sealant. That’s old-school thinking and can trap disease.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
This part is important. We’ve seen a lot of DIY pruning gone wrong. Here’s what people mess up the most:
- Topping the tree: This is NOT pruning. It’s butchering. Causes weak growth, invites disease.
- Cutting flush with the trunk: You’re removing the branch collar, and that slows healing.
- Leaving stubs: These just rot and become insect hotels.
- Over-pruning: Taking too much at once can shock or even kill a small tree.
- Wrong timing: Pruning in the dead heat of summer or while it’s flowering can stunt it.
If you’re not sure, hire someone who knows what they’re doing. You save more in the long run.
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What Happens If You Don’t Prune It?
It may not seem like a big deal for a few years. The tree still stands. Leaves look fine. But slowly, problems stack up:
- Branches grow unevenly: Eventually, you’ve got lopsided growth or limbs growing toward your house.
- Weaker structure: Trees with poor branching early on are more likely to split in storms.
- Increased disease risk: Poor airflow + dense canopies = fungus and insects.
- Bigger costs later: What you could’ve handled for $200 now needs a $1000 removal.
And worst of all, the tree may never reach its potential. Trees are an investment in shade, in property value, in beauty. Skimping on small pruning is like skipping oil changes for your truck. You’ll pay for it later.
Final Thought
Small tree pruning isn’t glamorous. It doesn’t get you compliments from the neighbours like removing a giant dead tree does. But it’s one of the best long-term things you can do for your trees and your wallet.
If you’re in Kansas City and your small tree needs attention, call us at Omar Tree Service. We’ll show up, give you the real price, and get it done right. No upsells, no BS.
Jose Maldonado
Owner, Omar Tree Service LLC
Located: 3020 Bellaire Ave, Kansas City, MO
Phone: +1 (816) 694-6352
