You might be wondering if spring is the right time for tree pruning.
As you have been admiring all of the fresh green growth in your property this spring, maybe you have noticed something else as well, like the excessive growth of a shrub or tree that you want to cut. Typically, the best time to prune your trees is when they are the most dormant. As you know, with each rule of thumb, there are always expectations. Read on to learn all about spring tree pruning!
Can Trees Be Pruned During the Spring?
For most tree species, the best time to trim trees is during the dormant seasons, which are November through March in temperature climates – since they are less susceptible to tree pests and diseases which aren’t active then. Pruning in the growing season when diseases and pests are active exposes fresh pruning wounds to possible infection and infestation. Trimming trees in the spring is possible, but you must follow some crucial rules.
Tree Trimming in Early Spring
You can safely remove a few dead, overgrown, damaged, or dying branches during the early spring. Late March and early April are the best times to do this, as long as you do not remove too many healthy branches. You do not want to stress your trees out during this prime growing season, which can put them at risk of pest infestations or disease. A good rule of thumb is to avoid removing more than 15 to 20 percent of a tree’s live branches in any one year for younger trees and no more than 10 percent for mature trees. Once trees are rapidly growing, pruning wounds can seal and close much faster, which is better for your trees. However, you do not want to over-prune a tree because it could stress it out as it continually tries to replenish the canopy.
Could You Trim Trees Once They’re Budding?
In general, heavy pruning during the spring could limit a tree’s bloom potential for the year, especially if it is a kind of species that blooms during the previous year’s growth. But, you could safely do some tree pruning in the tree, as long as you do not remove ten percent of the tree’s branches. Pruning mound sealants are typically recommended for use following pruning since they could worsen infection and decay, too, but it is crucial during the growing season to help sanitize pruning tools when moving between the trees to avoid spreading possible infections.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh and Middle River.
For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.