When is the Best Time to Prune Trees in North Texas?

You might have heard it said that the best time to prune trees in North Texas is in the fall and winter. While this is might a good rule, it is not always the case. The best time to prune depends on many factors. There is no single season that is right for every tree or every situation.

For homeowners in Denton County, Flower Mound, Frisco and the surrounding communities, understanding when to prune can help protect and preserve mature trees.

Spring and Summer Pruning

Traditional advice that trees should only be pruned in the fall or winter is too simplistic. Different species respond differently to pruning. This is why professional pruning recommendations should be based on tree biology and the tree’s state of health, rather than solely on the season.

For example, pruning deadwood, cleaning up storm damage and other safety-related work is permissible throughout the year.

Pruning certain species during a period of growth might help accelerate healing around cuts. This protects against pests and disease better. But again, it depends on the species and its condition. American Elms can “bleed” if cut during a growth period. If a large cut is made, there is a higher risk of fungal infection than if cut during a less active season.

During the hot summers, trees in North Texas, if not watered properly, might be stressed from drought. Removing large amounts of the canopy that is healthy during a period of stress is not good for any tree.

Dead or Hazardous Branches May Be Removed in any Season

Dead or hazardous limbs should be removed immediately, regardless of the time of year. This is especially true in North Texas. Storms with high winds can break dead or broken branches without warning.

Branches need to be removed when they:

• Pose a risk to people or property
• Are broken or damaged
• Interfere with structures of access

Emergency pruning should be performed by professionals. Improper cuts can create long-term structural problems and damage remaining healthy tissue.

Proper Pruning Techniques is Just as Important as Timing

Poor pruning techniques, whatever time of the year, will damage your tree.

Incorrect cuts can lead to rapid decline and permanent structural problems. Pruning is not just a haircut for your tree. The branches don’t just grow back in a few months. And the larger the branches that are removed or pruned, the more permanent the change. A poor pruning job can be akin to having a hand removed when all you wanted was a manicure.

Practices such as lion’s tailing, topping, excessive thinning of the interior branches can severely damage a tree’s health, leading to its rapid decline.

At Tree Shepherds, our arborists follow professional pruning practices designed to improve:

• Tree health and appearance
• Structural strength and stability
• Safety of people and property

Our pruning recommendations are made by ISA Certified Arborists, trained to follow ANSI A300 standards and the best practices in arboriculture science.

Professional Tree Pruning in North Texas

Mature trees are valuable to any property. They should be cared for properly to ensure their longevity, appearance and safety. Improper or unnecessary pruning can cause serious damage to a mature tree.

To avoid damage and the possible loss of your tree, contact Tree Shepherds to schedule a free estimate for pruning. One of our ISA Certified arborists will examine your tree and property and work with you to determine the best approach.