Spring brings thoughts of blooming, bountiful tree boughs, and the best new starts to the season ahead. You may also be thinking that you should prune some of your trees, even if some may be blooming.
It’s important to note that, in general, trees and shrubs should be trimmed only while they are dormant. When trees are pruned in the spring, they run a greater risk of being exposed to diseases or pests through the fresh cuts from pruning. However, a few exceptions exist when it is okay to prune your trees in the spring.
Pruning in the Spring
The good news is that some pruning can be done in the springtime. Dead or dying branches and damaged and overgrown branches can be removed at this time. Just be sure you’re not overdoing it. Putting the tree under too much stress can irreversibly damage tree, leading to infestations or disease.
What Trees Are Best Pruned in the Spring?
You can prune things that are newly planted and shape them. Birch, walnut, and maple trees are also good to be pruned in the spring and early summer. The following can be pruned in the spring, but you should wait until they’re done blooming:
- Lilac
- Apricot
- Magnolia
- Crabapple
- Flowering cherry and plum
- Dogwood
- Chokecherry
- Juneberry
What Trees Shouldn’t Be Pruned in the Spring?
Because pruning can leave trees vulnerable to disease and infestation, most trees, such as elm, oak, sycamore, and pear should only be pruned when they are dormant — so they definitely shouldn’t be pruned in the spring.
There are, of course, many tree varieties and lots of rules to make sure that your trees stay happy and healthy during their lifetimes. That’s why it’s best to trust the experts when pruning trees to avoid accidents. Schedule your spring tree services today.
