When Is the Best Time to Prune Trees in Middle Tennessee?
For many trees, late winter while they are dormant is a good time to prune: the branch structure is easy to see and wounds start to close as spring growth begins. Dead, broken or dangerous limbs can be removed at any time of year.
Request tree serviceWhy prune in late winter?
Without leaves, a crew can see every branch and make better cuts. Many insects and diseases are less active, and the tree is ready to grow over wounds in spring.
What about flowering trees?
Trees that flower in spring set their buds the year before. Pruning them in winter removes this year's flowers, so many people wait until just after flowering.
Can I prune in summer?
Light pruning, deadwood removal and clearance work can be done in summer. Avoid heavy pruning in the hottest, driest weeks, when trees are already stressed.
Is fall a good time?
Fall is often a less ideal time for heavy pruning, because wounds close slowly as trees head into dormancy. Removing hazards before winter storms is still sensible.
What should I avoid?
Topping, leaving stubs, cutting flush with the trunk and removing too much of the canopy at once. Each one weakens the tree.
Who should do it?
Small branches you can reach from the ground are fine to cut yourself with clean, sharp tools. Anything needing a ladder, a chainsaw or work near lines is a job for a crew. See tree trimming and pruning.
How often should trees be pruned?
Young trees benefit from light structural pruning every few years. Mature trees usually need attention less often, mainly to remove deadwood and keep clearance from the house. A crew can set a simple schedule so each tree is looked at before it becomes a problem, and so the work is spread out over the years rather than done all at once.
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