How Often Should You Prune Trees?
Research studies have stated that well-taken care of trees can increase property value by up to 14%. That statistic only rings true though, if you make sure to properly trim, prune, water, and fertilize your trees.
Pruning like a pro though, is harder than it looks. If you don’t know the basics, you can permanently damage your trees.
Before we get down to the nitty-gritty of when to prune your trees, lets first discuss the reasons for pruning. Knowing the reasons behind pruning could potentially save you from inflicting damage onto your trees.
If you have large trees on your property, it would be worthwhile to schedule a general cleanup twice a year. Our team members will come out and rake leaves, trim trees, put down mulch, and much more.
Reasons for pruning
Fosters new growth
Keeps your property safe for family and guests
Removes unproductive growth
Encourages fruit production
Stimulates flower production
Removes any damaged or unwanted branches
You should always prune with a goal in mind. When you prune poorly, your tree may become weak and damaged.
It could even die. Pruning is both a way to be creative as an artist, but you do need to know how to make the cuts and which tools to use.
When to prune
The information that you need to know as a homeowner is that different trees need to be pruned at different times.
Arborists state that mature trees can go years without being pruned. Typically every 3-5 years is a good baseline.
RELATED TIP: How To Winter-Proof Your Landscape
Younger, still developing trees should be pruned more often, around every 2-3 years.
Fruit trees will need to be pruned yearly to foster the production of fruit. This usually occurs in late winter, but sometimes a second spring pruning is necessary to curb excessive fruit growth.
Deciduous trees and most evergreen trees are pruned in late winter.
No pruning should be done on any tree in late summer because it may initiate new growth that will get damaged by winter weather.
It is highly recommended to prune when trees are in their dormant season, before new growth begins.
That rule may be broken though, if a tree has any dead or broken branches. Otherwise, insects or diseases may try to take over the tree.
Here at Evergreen Lawn and Landscape, we have trained specialists that can determine if and when your trees need to be pruned or trimmed. Check out our tree trimming service page today.
Oak wilt
Oak wilt is a serious disease that affects millions of trees each year across the United States. This disease is commonly seen throughout Central Texas, but cases are starting to pop across North Texas cities as well.
If red or pin oak trees become infected, they’ll die in a few weeks. Oak wilt will progress more slowly in white or bur oak trees.
This disease is most commonly seen in spring. As a general rule of thumb, do not prune oak trees anytime from April-November.
Wrapping up
Once you get your trees pruned and looking great, consider sprucing up your landscaping. Our trained team members can make all your landscaping dreams come true.
RELATED TIP: Lawn & Garden Watering Guidelines
Just remember, it is always ok to prune dead or broken branches. Always check your trees for damages after a storm.
Use caution if your trees have grown close to power lines or telephone poles. In these cases, it’s best to call in a professional like Evergreen Lawn and Landscape.
