Why Winter Tree Pruning Is Wise

Winter tree pruning probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list – but you now’s an ideal time to schedule an appointment with a local certified arborist.

 

Many people tend to forget about tree care during the cold weather months, and some assume that tree service professionals don’t offer service in the winter. The reality is, this time of year is perfect for pruning. Here’s why.

 winter tree pruning

Tree Structure Is More Visible

 

With the leaves gone, making accurate cuts on problem branches is much easier. A certified arborist can tell at a glance what needs to be pruned away.

 

Trees Are Dormant in Winter

 

Pruning during dormancy allows for a vigorous, healthy burst of growth in the spring – and isn’t that exactly what you want to see?

 

Winter Is No Friend to Tree Disease

 

Tree disease tends to spread more easily during the growing season. Prune in the winter, and diseases stand little chance of taking hold or finding their way to neighboring specimens.

 

Insects Are Less Active in Winter

 

Pests don’t like frigid temperatures, and most problem insects are dormant in the winter. Prune now, and the fresh branch cuts have little chance of attracting an infestation.

 

Winter Pruning Boosts Spring Growth

 

Trees that are pruned in the winter flourish come spring, as pruning provides extra energy reserves that support vigorous growth in the warmer weather conditions.

 

Winter Tree Pruning Is Easier

 

Accessing the yard to prune with state-of-the-art equipment is much less difficult – and much less likely to cause landscape damage – when the ground is hard and frozen.

 

What About Spring & Summer Tree Pruning?

 

Certified arborists say winter is a great time to prune, but that doesn’t mean you should skip tree pruning in the spring and summer. It’s still important, as the practice is done for different reasons, including:

 

  • Identifying and cutting away deadwood and diseased or damaged branches
  • Improving the balance or overall shape of the foliage
  • Opening up the foliage to provide the interior with more sunlight and air flow
  • Eliminating branches and foliage that are getting in the way of the view or blocking a walkway

 

These issues can be difficult to address with winter tree pruning, as they may not be obvious when the trees don’t have any leaves. So, you may still need to prune in the spring or summer. Just remember not to do any pruning once fall arrives, as this weakens trees and puts them at greater risk for winter damage.

 

If you’re ready for winter tree pruning and you live in the greater Salt Lake City or along the Wasatch Front, turn to the certified arborists at Reliable Tree Care.

 

A well-known and trusted leader in the northern Utah arborist industry for over 20 years, Reliable Tree Care offers a range of affordable professional services that can help preserve the health and beauty of your landscape. Contact our Murray office and schedule a free, no-pressure comprehensive yard evaluation to discuss winter tree pruning today.