The Difference Between Deadwood Pruning and Canopy Reduction

August 14, 2025

Not All Tree Trimming Is the Same

At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often hear clients use the terms “pruning” and “trimming” as if they mean the same thing. While both involve removing branches from a tree, the purpose, timing, and results of different pruning techniques can vary significantly. Two of the most common approaches we use are deadwood pruning and canopy reduction. These services are not interchangeable, and knowing the difference can help you decide what your trees need to remain healthy, safe, and visually appealing.

Man on ladder trimming tree branch with chainsaw against a blue sky.

What Is Deadwood Pruning

Deadwood pruning is the process of removing branches that are no longer alive. Dead branches may develop because of disease, insect damage, age, storm injury, or insufficient sunlight reaching certain parts of the tree. While dead branches might seem harmless at first, they can pose serious safety hazards. They are far more likely to break and fall during high winds or storms, which can put people, property, and vehicles at risk.



From a health perspective, dead branches can also serve as entry points for pests and decay-causing organisms. By removing them, we reduce the chances of these threats spreading to healthy parts of the tree. When we perform deadwood pruning, we make careful cuts that protect the living tissue of the tree, supporting its ability to seal wounds naturally and redirect energy toward new growth.

Pruning shears cutting a tree branch with a blurred green background.

What Is Canopy Reduction

Canopy reduction is a different type of pruning that focuses on reducing the overall size, height, or spread of a tree’s crown. Instead of removing only dead material, this process involves selectively cutting live branches to reshape the tree, improve structural balance, or reduce the weight of extended limbs.


This technique is often used when a tree has grown too close to buildings, power lines, or other trees. It can also be beneficial for improving sunlight penetration and airflow through the canopy, which can create a healthier environment for both the tree and nearby plants. Canopy reduction can reduce the risk of storm damage by limiting the sail effect, where a dense canopy catches wind like a sail and places stress on the trunk and root system.



Our approach to canopy reduction is conservative and precise. We avoid removing too much foliage at one time, as over-pruning can stress the tree, make it more susceptible to pests or disease, and alter its natural shape.

Looking up at a forest canopy, with a dead tree in the center.

When Deadwood Pruning Is the Best Option

Deadwood pruning is typically recommended when:

  • The tree has visible dead or decaying branches.
  • Storm damage has caused broken or hazardous limbs.
  • Safety concerns exist in high-traffic areas where branches could fall.
  • The tree is otherwise healthy and does not require structural size adjustments.
Person in a cherry picker trimming a tree against a blue sky.

When Canopy Reduction Is the Best Option

Canopy reduction is generally the right choice when:

  • A tree’s branches are obstructing structures, sidewalks, or driveways.
  • Too much shade is limiting the health of lawns or gardens.
  • The canopy is overly dense, restricting airflow and light penetration.
  • Heavy limbs extend too far from the trunk, creating a structural risk.

Combining the Two Techniques

In many cases, we use both deadwood pruning and canopy reduction in the same visit. For example, we might first remove all dead branches for safety, then selectively reduce the canopy to address clearance issues or improve the tree’s overall structure. This combined approach can restore both safety and balance to the tree while promoting long-term health.

Person pruning a rose bush with red-handled clippers, wearing a floral glove and brown leather glove.

The Value of Professional Pruning

Pruning is both a science and an art. Removing too much at the wrong time or making improper cuts can permanently damage a tree. By working with certified arborists, you ensure that every cut is intentional and that the health of the tree remains the priority. Our team uses industry-standard practices, the proper equipment, and a deep understanding of tree biology to deliver safe and effective results.



At Midwest Tree Surgeons, our goal is to match the right pruning technique to the needs of each tree and property. Whether your priority is safety, aesthetics, or structural health, we can guide you toward the service that will provide the best outcome. By understanding the difference between deadwood pruning and canopy reduction, you can make informed decisions that will benefit your trees for years to come.

Green leaves and branches against a blurred sky, creating a dappled light effect.
Tall tree with a textured, gray trunk, surrounded by green leaves and branches against a blue sky.
Gravel path lined by trees, leading to a distant, obscured structure, sunlight dappling the way.
Looking up at flowering tree with red blooms and blue sky.
Brown light fixture hangs in a tree with green leaves against a blue sky.
Chainsaw cutting a tree branch; sawdust flies in the air.

How Proper Tree Care Reduces Liability for Homeowners

September 23, 2025
Owning a home comes with responsibilities that go beyond paying the mortgage and maintaining the interior. The landscape, particularly large trees, can also pose risks if not properly cared for. While trees add beauty, shade, character, and value to a property, neglected or unhealthy trees can quickly become liabilities. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners protect their investment and reduce potential liability through expert tree care services. The Legal Responsibility of Homeowners Homeowners are generally responsible for ensuring that their property does not present unreasonable hazards to others. This is called “ Duty of Care ” in law. This responsibility includes trees. If a neglected or diseased tree falls and damages a neighbor’s property, vehicle, or injures someone, the homeowner may be held liable. Even branches that extend over property lines or public sidewalks can create risks if they break unexpectedly. Proactive care ensures that homeowners are fulfilling their duty to maintain a safe environment .

How Cabling and Bracing Protect Valuable Trees From Storm Damage

September 18, 2025
Trees are some of the most valuable assets on any property. They provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits, and in many cases, they hold sentimental value for homeowners. However, storms in the Midwest can bring high winds, heavy rain, and ice that place enormous stress on trees. Even healthy trees can experience structural weaknesses that make them vulnerable. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we offer cabling and bracing as specialized techniques to protect valuable trees from storm damage and extend their lifespans. Understanding Structural Weakness in Trees Not all trees grow with perfect structure. Some develop weak branch unions , where two large limbs diverge from a single point at a narrow angle. Others grow with uneven weight distribution or multiple trunks that compete for dominance. While these conditions may not cause immediate problems, they create vulnerabilities when storms strike. Strong winds and heavy snow can cause weakened branches to snap, splitting the tree and leaving behind irreparable damage.

Signs Your Trees May Not Survive the Winter Without Care

September 10, 2025
Fall is the season when homeowners begin preparing their properties for the cold months ahead. While many focus on sealing windows, checking heating systems, or cleaning gutters, tree care is often overlooked. Trees are resilient, but harsh winter conditions can expose hidden weaknesses. Without proper attention in the fall, some trees may not survive the cold, snow, and ice. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners recognize the warning signs that indicate a tree needs care before winter arrives.

The Environmental Benefits of Professional Tree Care

September 3, 2025
Trees are among the most valuable natural resources in our communities. They provide shade, improve air quality, and support wildlife. Yet many homeowners overlook the importance of professional tree care in preserving these benefits. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that taking care of trees is not only about maintaining curb appeal or preventing hazards, but also about protecting the environment. Professional tree care contributes directly to healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future.

Tree Preservation vs Tree Removal: Knowing When to Choose Each Option

August 29, 2025
Trees bring beauty, shade, and value to any property, but they also require careful attention to ensure they remain safe and healthy. Homeowners often face a difficult choice when a tree begins to show signs of stress or decline: should it be preserved, or is removal the safer and more responsible decision? At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that every tree deserves thoughtful evaluation before action is taken. Here is what you should know about deciding between preservation and removal.

Tree Pruning Myths That Could Harm Your Landscape

August 20, 2025
Pruning is one of the most important aspects of tree care. When done correctly, it improves the health, safety, and appearance of your trees. However, when done poorly or based on incorrect assumptions, it can cause lasting damage. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often encounter homeowners who have heard common myths about pruning that could put their trees at risk. By understanding these misconceptions, you can make better choices for your landscape.

How to Prepare Trees for Heavy Snowfall Before Winter Hits

August 7, 2025
Don’t Wait for a Fall As Midwest winters approach, homeowners face the annual challenge of protecting their property from extreme weather. While much attention is paid to snow removal and roof maintenance, trees often go overlooked until a limb crashes down or an entire tree topples under the weight of snow and ice. Proper tree preparation is essential not only for the health of your landscape but also for the safety of your home and family. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe proactive care is the best strategy for protecting your trees and avoiding costly damage during the winter months. Here is what you need to know.

How Tree Roots Can Affect Your Foundation and Plumbing

August 1, 2025
Protecting Your Property from Underground Damage Trees offer countless benefits: shade, privacy, curb appeal, and cleaner air. But when their roots grow unchecked, they can also become a costly threat to your property. For homeowners in the Midwest, root systems from mature or poorly placed trees can lead to serious damage below ground. Foundations can crack. Pipes can rupture. And what starts as a small root intrusion can quickly grow into a major headache. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we understand both the value of mature trees and the importance of protecting your home. Here is what you need to know about invasive roots and how to address them before they cause long-term damage.

How Invasive Plant Species Threaten Native Midwest Forests

July 23, 2025
Protecting the Midwest Landscape The trees that define the Midwest landscape (oaks, maples, elms, and more) are essential to the health of local ecosystems . They provide shade, support wildlife, and help maintain soil and air quality. But these natural systems are increasingly threatened by invasive plant species that crowd out native growth and disrupt the balance of the environment. Unlike native species, invasive plants are introduced from outside ecosystems and tend to grow rapidly, reproduce aggressively, and outcompete native plants for resources. Without natural predators or environmental checks, these plants spread quickly and can overtake entire landscapes if left unmanaged. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help property owners and land managers identify and remove these harmful species before they do lasting damage. Understanding the problem is the first step toward protecting your trees and your land.

Why Summer Storms Can Be a Threat to Weak Trees

July 16, 2025
 How to Protect Your Property This Summer Midwestern summers are known for their beauty: long sunny days, lush greenery, and warm evenings. But they also bring a regular cycle of heavy storms. Thunderstorms, high winds, and saturated ground can wreak havoc on vulnerable trees, creating serious safety hazards and costly property damage. For homeowners and property managers, understanding how storm conditions interact with tree health is essential. The good news is that most storm-related tree failures are preventable with proactive care and inspection. This article will explore why weak trees are especially at risk during summer storms and how working with a certified arborist can help safeguard your property.
More Posts