Winter Is the Best Time of Year for Tree Pruning

Homeowners often wonder when the best time of year is to have their trees pruned. The answer is partly dependent on the type of tree involved along with other factors like how susceptible the tree is to disease and the impact of insects.

The best time of year to prune your trees and shrubs is generally during the winter. From November to March is when most trees are dormant.

Read on to find out why this is the ideal season to prepare for tree pruning.

Why tree pruning is important

Let’s start with why you’d want to have your trees pruned in the first place. This is a part of regular care and maintenance programs for trees. That’s because pruning the right way encourages the plant to grow, increases the plant’s health and improves the curb appeal of your property. It can also help increase the amount of production of both flowers and fruits.

Pruning increases the plant’s overall health by removing the following:

• Branch stubs
• Dead or dying branches that have been adversely affected by infestation, storms, disease or other damage
• Branches that are rubbing together

By doing so, you’ll encourage the development of flowers and fruit while maintaining a dense hedge and encouraging specific plants to thrive. Pruning also controls the size and shape of the plant and removes anything that’s less desirable.

On top of this, you’ll also protect your family and property as well. Removing dead branches takes potential hazards out of your yard. Branches that overhang and threaten your home, vehicle or lawn features will also be removed. A professional arborist will also identify any trees that need to be removed.

Winter pruning

Pruning during the winter means that fresh wounds to the trees will only have short exposure before new growth begins. There are also fewer obstructions from leaves, making it easier to identify which branches and trees require trimming. All the following tree species should be pruned during the winter:

• Oak trees
• Cedar trees
• Firs and Douglas firs
• Spruces
• Hedges
• Apple trees
• Honey locusts
• Pines

During the cold-weather months, trees are less susceptible to insect infestation and related diseases. There’s less impact on the surrounding landscape as well. The trees will heal faster, meaning they’re ready for spring. You’re also more likely to be able to hire tree specialists at a discount during the winter, as homeowners often wait until spring or summer for pruning.

There are a few species of trees that are better pruned during other parts of the year. These include maples, butternuts, walnuts, birches and arborvitae.

Are you interested in tree pruning services? Then trust the pros at BBD Tree Service. We’re here to tend to your trees through pruning and trimming to keep them growing strong and full. We’ll also take our utmost care to keep your property safe while we work. We do it all in Watertown, MA—no job is too big or too small. Contact us today to find out more about our services and ask for a free quote.

Categorised in: Tree Pruning

This post was written by Writer