Emergency Tree Removal
Tree pruning is both an art and a science — you can’t just take a pair of shears and start trimming branches whenever you feel like it. The wrong cut at the wrong time can stress the tree, invite disease, or even stunt its development. That’s why it’s important to understand when to prune your trees as well as how to do it properly. Fortunately, the experts at Herrington Tree Care are here to help you on your journey to boosting your tree’s health. Today, we’re discussing how to determine if now is the right time to prune your trees.
The Best Time of Year to Prune Trees
In general, the best time to prune trees is during the dormant season, which typically falls in the winter season. During this period of time, trees are not actively growing, meaning pruning wounds heal faster, and there is less risk of disease and pest infestations. Additionally, with the leaves gone, it’s easier to see the tree’s structure and make strategic cuts that improve its health.
Of course, not all trees are the same. In this case, we want to point out that flowering trees do not typically follow the rule stated above. Instead, the best time to prune a flowering tree depends on when it blooms. For example, if the tree flowers in the spring (as with cherry trees), it’s best to prune them right after they bloom. This ensures you don’t accidentally remove buds that would produce flowers next season. For trees that bloom in summer or fall (such as dogwoods), late winter pruning is usually the way to go.
Other Reasons to Prune Your Property’s Trees
While it’s essential to keep seasonal timing in mind, there are situations when pruning is necessary regardless of the time of year. For example, you may need to have a professional prune your tree if it has suffered storm damage, it’s obstructing traffic, or it has diseased or infested branches.
Fixing Storm Damage
Because severe weather can wreak havoc on your trees, it’s important to have them inspected as soon as possible. After an in-depth evaluation, your tree care expert may recommend removing any damaged or hazardous limbs to prevent injury and property damage. They will also encourage pruning broken branches to reduce the number of entry points for disease and pests and to encourage a full recovery.
Providing Clearance for Structures and Traffic
Overgrown trees can become a hazard when their branches interfere with buildings, sidewalks, or roads. If your tree’s limbs are scraping against your roof or blocking visibility along your driveway, it’s time to prune. Professional arborists at Herrington Tree Care can make sure the job is completed safely without harming your tree’s health.
Removing Diseased, Infested, or Dead Branches
One of the most critical reasons to prune is to eliminate diseased, pest-infested, or dead branches. These compromised branches can spread illness throughout the tree, attract other insects, or become weak points that may break unexpectedly. By removing them promptly, you can protect the overall health of the tree and prevent potential damage to nearby structures.
Getting Rid of Crossing or Rubbing Branches
When two branches grow too closely together or cross over each other, they can create weak spots that make the tree more susceptible to damage. Thinning out crossing or rubbing branches allows for better airflow, reducing the risk of disease and promoting strong, healthy growth.
Opening Vistas
If your trees have become overgrown and are obstructing scenic views, vista pruning can open up beautiful sightlines while still maintaining the integrity of the tree. Whether you want a better view of the Savannah River or just more sunlight in your yard, proper pruning can make a big difference.
Why You Should Leave Tree Pruning to the Professionals
Tree pruning might seem straightforward, but it’s actually more complicated than it appears. Improper cuts can lead to irreversible damage, weakening the tree and making it more susceptible to disease, pests, or structural failure. Not to mention that pruning large trees can be incredibly dangerous. Instead of putting your well-being and the tree’s health at risk, turn to the professionals at Herrington Tree Care when it’s time to prune trees on your property. We have the experience, training, and tools to complete your project with care.
Contact Herrington Tree Care Today
If you’re wondering when to prune trees on your property, let the experts at Herrington Tree Care provide you with the right guidance. We’ll evaluate your trees’ needs and ensure they receive the best care possible at the ideal time. Contact us today to schedule a tree pruning service in Savannah, GA!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Pruning
When is the best time to prune fruit trees?
Most fruit trees should be pruned in late winter to early spring before they break dormancy. Pruning during this time encourages healthy growth, improves air circulation, and enhances fruit production.
When do you trim crepe myrtles?
Crepe myrtles should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Partner with the experts at Herrington Tree Care to avoid excessive pruning, also known as “crepe murder,” which can weaken the tree and result in weak, spindly growth.
When should oak trees be pruned?
The best time to prune oak trees is during the winter, typically from November to early March, when the trees are dormant and sap beetles are inactive.
When is the best time to prune bushes?
The ideal pruning time for bushes depends on the species. For most deciduous shrubs, late winter or early spring is best before new growth starts.
Can trees be pruned in summer?
While major pruning is best done during the dormant season, summer pruning is sometimes necessary. Light pruning can help remove dead or damaged branches. Just remember that heavy pruning during summer can stress the tree.
When do you prune apple trees?
Apple trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring, while they are still dormant but before new growth begins.
When do you prune peach trees?
Like other fruit trees, we recommend pruning peach trees in late winter or early spring before the buds start to swell. This helps maintain an open canopy for better sunlight penetration, improves air circulation, and encourages better fruit production.