Trimming Trees in the Spring

Spring is here, and the trees are brimming with buds. Should I trim my tree?

Short answer: when in doubt, do not prune your trees or trim trees in the Spring.

Long answer: fall or winter are the best times of year to trim trees because trees (and pests) are dormant. Pruning in the Spring increases tree stress and sap loss and can lead to disease and unwanted pests. During winter, fungi, pests, and your tree are dormant — in the spring, they become active. Certain tree species and varieties are more vulnerable than others. It may be ok to prune certain species of trees in the Spring.

Reasons to have your trees trimmed in the fall or winter:

• Reduced risk of pest or fungal infection
• Minimize sap loss and tree stress
• With the leaves off, you will have a better concept of how pruning will affect the shape of the tree

Why hire a professional tree trimming company?

• A professional tree trimming service will know when to trim certain tree species. Each species has a different set of vulnerabilities to pests and/or fungi, and a professional tree service will know how to handle these issues.
• It is easy to get carried away when pruning trees; professional tree trimmers know how to properly thin trees without removing too many limbs, which may cause stress or possibly kill the tree.
• Tree trimming is dangerous. When trimming a tall tree, it is often necessary to scale the tree. Professionals use harnesses, tree spikes/spurs, and are trained professionals whom have logged hundreds of hours trimming trees. Hiring a professional is a smart way to keep yourself safe!

Not sure whether it’s safe to trim your tree in the Spring?

If you would like to have your trees trimmed or pruned, but aren’t sure whether it is safe to prune in the Spring, give us a call at (303) 274-8431.