Ask an Arborist: Why Do I Need to Prune?

Tree pruning, trimming, or cutting is an ongoing process throughout the life of your tree. After selecting the right tree and carefully planting it, early pruning is the most important thing you can do for a young tree.

Pruning during dormancy is the most common practice.  It results in a vigorous burst of new growth in the spring. It is usually best to wait until the coldest part of winter has passed.

Proper pruning will save you money and give you a safer more beautiful, healthier, and easier-to-maintain tree. Remember what you do to your tree in its first few years of life will affect its shape, strength, and even its life span. If we focus our pruning efforts strategically – with the right tools – we can develop long-lived urban trees!