Should I Prune My Trees in Winter?

Trees are a lovely part of the landscape. They are also a big benefit to the environment and are vital to good air quality. Trees require proper care and need to be pruned on a regular basis. Pruning will help a tree thrive.

Prune a Tree While It’s Dormant

The best time of year to prune your trees is when they are dormant, which is usually in the winter. This will allow for a spurt of new growth once spring returns and will encourage a fuller, more mature look for the tree as it continues to grow.

It’s best to wait until the coldest part of winter has passed. Pruning a tree in the middle of freezing weather can harm your tree. Harsh weather is a stressor and pruning during that time can overwhelm a plant.

What About Flowering Trees?

Some trees can benefit from spring pruning. If you have a tree that flowers in spring, pruning after the blooms fade will encourage more profuse flowering. Summer flowering trees can be attended to in winter or early spring.

Avoid Fall Pruning

It’s important to note that except to remove damaged limbs, you should not prune most trees during the autumn months. Fungi spreads most rapidly during fall, especially on trees that have recently been trimmed.

How Pruning Keeps Trees Healthy

Getting rid of dead or damaged branches stops decay-causing organisms or insects from invading the tree. It allows the tree to increase its intake of air and sunlight, which is essential to a tree’s overall health and growth.

Pruning can also control the dimensions of a tree, giving it a more pleasing shape. Removing branches in summer can slow growth. This may be important if you’re trying to control the size of a tree.

If you don’t prune your trees, they can become safety hazards. Damaged or weak branches may fall and damage passersby, buildings and other valuable property. If you see dead or damaged branches, they should be removed right away no matter what the season.

Before you start chopping away at the trees in your yard, research the best ways to cut them. If they are trimmed incorrectly, it could damage the tree. Be sure you check on the specific types of trees you have because every species has different characteristics that could require special care.

Inexpensive Tree Care can take the hassle out of pruning. We know how to care for the trees around Portland. Get a free estimate by calling 503-504-4179.