Here at Call Tree Service in Richmond, we get a lot of questions from our customers about when they should prune their trees. When we get this question, we ask, “Why are you pruning?” While light pruning and dead wood removal can really be done at any time, if you’re pruning for any other reason, there are specific guidelines you should follow depending on the tree species. Today we’re going to give you some tips to help with pruning your trees.

Winter Pruning

Pruning your trees during winter dormancy is most common and results in a vigorous burst of new Spring growth. If this is what you’re looking for, pruning in the winter is the best time to prune. However, wait until the coldest part of winter has passed before you prune! If you’re not entirely sure how to prune or where to start, we invite you to call us so that we can help you!

Summer Pruning

If you’re trying to direct tree growth by slowing branches that you don’t desire, or if you’re trying to slow the development of a tree, pruning should be done soon after seasonal growth is complete. The reason for the slowing effect is that you reduce the total leaf surface, thereby reducing the amount of food manufactured and sent to the roots. You should also reason to prune in the summer is for corrective purposes. Defective limbs can be seen more easily, or limbs that hang down too far under the weight of the leaves.