The ideal time to prune an established tree is during winter dormancy. All pruning cuts are an injury to the tree, so it is best to avoid pruning in spring and summer when the tree is actively growing. During this time, the tree's resources are already exhausted from producing foliage and new shoots, and it needs energy to properly seal wounds caused by cuts. Trees don't heal as much as they are sealed through a process called CODIT (compartmentalization of decay in trees).
In some cases, it may be necessary to break this rule to remove dead branches or branches that affect a structure. For optimal tree health and safety, it is recommended that most major pruning be done during the fall and winter months. This is when trees are inactive and have a large amount of energy stored, allowing them to better disperse this energy to deal with fresh cuts. It also reduces the risk of pests being attracted to fresh cuts and causing more damage, as beetles can transfer fungi and cause diseases. By pruning in winter, your tree will be healthier and happier when spring comes. The City of Winchester Tree Division has partnered with Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) and Reading Landscapes, Inc.
to create a safe, healthy, and attractive tree canopy by replacing trees that are overripe and declining in the public right of way that are in conflict with overhead power lines. If you need more information on proper pruning practices or tree care, contact Old Town Tree & Landscaping LLC for expert advice. They specialize in providing high-quality tree care and customer satisfaction.
