Pruning is an important part of tree health: it promotes new growth, removes dead or damaged branches, and keeps trees looking their best. Keeping fruit trees correctly pruned also improves your chances of getting a bumper crop. However, different types of tree have different pruning requirements, and it’s important to prune at the right time to get the best results. 

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First things first: how can you tell if your trees need pruning? 

Most trees will need pruning once every 2-4 years, and a yearly inspection is a good way to check if your trees are due for a trim. Here are some tell-tale signs that your tree would benefit from pruning:

• The tree is overgrown, or has grown out of shape.
• Branches are getting too close to power lines or buildings.
• Branches are getting too close to each other, or are crossing over.
• Branches are dead or have significant damage.

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If you’re unsure when or how to prune, or if you’re not confident that you can cut back your trees without causing damage, give us a call. We can take care of the trimming and thinning to keep your trees in great shape.

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The best times to prune trees

Deciduous trees

Deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves in winter) are best pruned in late autumn or winter. During these months the tree is dormant, so pruning causes less stress on the plant. It’s also easier to see the branch structure, which takes guesswork out of the pruning process. 

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Trees that flower in spring

Spring bloomers - like camellias, lilacs and rhododendrons - are best pruned in late Spring, once they’ve finished flowering. These trees flower on “old wood” rather than new growth, so pruning them in winter risks removing precious flower buds. 

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Trees that flower in summer

Summer-flowering trees - like magnolias and hydrangeas - produce flowers on new growth. It’s best to prune them in winter or early spring, before any new growth appears.

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Foliage shrubs

Foliage shrubs can be pruned at most times of the year. If possible, avoid pruning in autumn; this stimulates new growth, which may not survive winter frosts.

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Fruit trees

In general, fruit trees (including citrus) should be pruned once they’ve finished fruiting for the year. This can vary depending on the tree: for example, apple and pear trees are best pruned in winter so they produce more fruit the following season. If you’re unsure, get in touch with our team for advice on your specific trees.

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Not sure? Ask an arborist. 

Our team is experienced in pruning trees of all varieties, and can keep your trees in tip-top shape. We can also safely and effectively prune trees in less-than-ideal times of year, which may be needed if a tree is damaged, or threatening people or property. Contact us to talk about how we can help.