Pruning and trimming are the most common tree maintenance procedures. Forest trees grow quite well with only nature’s pruning; however, landscape trees require a higher level of care to maintain their structural integrity and aesthetics. This is why regular scheduled pruning and trimming is a necessary part of keeping trees healthy. Pruning consists of removing the dead, loose or infected branches or stems, while trimming involves cutting back overgrown branches and plants. Pruning removes potential safety hazards by helping prevent major safety risks posed by trees that are overgrown, misshapen or weighted down by dead branches. The process of tree trimming, however, is focused primarily on aesthetics. We do this to maintain a tree’s desired shape and appearance. Left alone, trees can become unwieldly, with branches growing in various directions.
Because each cut has the potential to change the growth of the tree, no branch should be removed without a reason. Common reasons are to remove dead branches and improve the form. Trees are also pruned to increase light and air penetration to the inside of the tree’s crown or to the landscape below. In most cases, mature trees are pruned as corrective or preventative measures. It is also important to note that routine thinning does not necessarily improve the health of the tree. Trees produce a dense crown of leaves to manufacture the sugar used as energy for growth and development. Removal of foliage through pruning can reduce growth and stored energy reserves. Thus, heavy pruning can actually be a significant health stress for the tree.
So the question is, when do you prune? Most routine pruning can be accomplished at any time during the year. As a rule, growth and wound closure are maximized if pruning takes place before the spring growth flush. We also recommend oaks and elms in the fall during their dormant season.
