Got a tree limb you want to remove because it hangs over your house? Today you'll learn how to trim it correctly and neatly so it doesn't hurt you (or the tree!) There's more to trimming a tree limb than one would think. They're awkward and deceivingly heavy, so don't cut them off in just one piece. If you do, you may wind-up re-roofing... and visiting the emergency room, too! Rather, cut off short lengths until you're within a foot or two of the trunk. Then make two final cuts for removal: one from below about halfway through to prevent bark from tearing away as it falls free, and one from above to remove the limb. Most importantly, don't trim it flush with the tree. Back off a few inches past the raised ring. This ?collar? contains critical cells that close the cut and help the tree heal properly. Without it, the open cut surface could rot, ushering in both insects and disease that eventually could destroy the entire tree.