How to Prune Your Trees for Health and Growth: Expert Tips

Pruning trees might seem like a simple task, but if you want to do it right, there are a few core principles that can help. Here’s the no-nonsense guide on how to prune your trees for optimal health and growth.

1. Know When to Prune

Timing is crucial. The best time to prune most trees is during their dormant season, typically late winter or early spring. Pruning during this time minimizes stress and helps the tree recover quickly. Avoid pruning during the summer or late fall, as this can lead to increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. If you have a flowering tree, wait until after it blooms before cutting it back to ensure you don’t remove next year’s blossoms. There are some exceptions, such as certain trees that are prone to fungus or disease based on the time of year, such as cherry trees with bacterial canker or oak trees susceptible to oak wilt. A professional arborist can confirm the right time to prune based on the tree you're working with.

2. Use the Right Tools

Proper tools make a world of difference. Invest in high-quality pruning shears, loppers, and a pruning saw. For smaller branches, shears and loppers should suffice, but for larger limbs, a saw is necessary. Make sure your tools are sharp and always clean with rubbing alcohol or alternative substances to avoid spreading diseases. Dull tools can cause ragged cuts that invite infections.

3. Make Proper Cuts

When pruning, always make proper cuts close and just above the branch collar—the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. Avoid cutting too close to the trunk, which can damage the tree, and don’t leave a stub, as it can attract pests and diseases. The goal is to create a smooth, clean cut that heals quickly.

One common mistake amongst those just starting is removing limbs with a single cut, which can tear the bark past the branch collar and make it difficult for the tree to compartmentalize the wound. To avoid this, use the “3 cut method” for medium or large limbs: make a notch cut on the underside of the branch, followed by a top cut to remove the limb, and finally, trim the remaining stub to make a clean cut just outside the branch collar. This method helps prevent bark tearing and ensures a cleaner cut.

And a word of grace—it’s okay to make mistakes, especially when you’re just starting out! There are corrective tools such as pruning saws or small saws, and most pruning shears are sharp enough to take off extra pieces that may be lingering.

4. Avoid Over-Pruning

Less is more when it comes to pruning. Over-pruning can stress out your tree, leading to poor growth and vulnerability to diseases. Stick to removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches and avoid cutting more than 25%-33% of the tree’s canopy in one year. If you are just starting or the tree you’re working with is old and hasn’t been maintained for far too long, it may be best to take less at first. Removing too much foliage at once disrupts the tree’s ability to photosynthesize and can lead to long-term health issues.

5. Understand Tree Types

Different trees have different needs. For instance, some fruit trees benefit from summer pruning to improve fruit quality, while shade trees might only need minimal pruning. Research the specific requirements of the tree species you’re working with. To name a few examples - oak trees should not be pruned during the spring and summer to avoid attracting oak wilt fungus, cherry trees are best pruned in late summer to minimize the risk of bacterial canker, and birch and maple trees should be pruned in late fall or early winter to prevent excessive sap bleeding. If in doubt, reach out to us for a consult to confirm that you’re on the right path.

6. Don't Forget Safety

Safety first! When working with large trees or heavy branches, use proper safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. If you need to use a ladder, use extreme caution. Ensure the ladder is stable and positioned correctly, and only use it for fine pruning and light branches. For larger jobs, consider hiring a professional arborist, such as us, to avoid accidents and ensure the job is done right.

7. Prune for Structure

Tree pruning is a nuanced practice that varies widely across different cultures and regions, reflecting diverse approaches to managing tree health, aesthetics, and function. There are many different pruning styles, such as English Pruning, Japanese Pruning, and Australian Pruning, each with its techniques and philosophies tailored to specific tree species and environmental conditions. No matter whether you follow a style or not, focus on creating a strong tree structure. Removing any weak or crossing branches will prevent future damage. Also removing any cankered or damaged wood will prevent disease and encourage the tree to put energy towards existing and new branches. Proper pruning helps trees develop a strong central leader and evenly spaced branches, which enhances stability and resilience. To learn more about the different kinds of pruning techniques, this article on the 7 Essential Types of Tree Pruning is a great article for beginners. The book The Holistic Orchard: Tree Fruits & Berries the Biological Way by Michael Phillips is also a great resource for beginners looking to prune young fruit trees.

8. Understand the Tree’s Growth Pattern

Different trees grow differently. Some have a natural central leader, while others have a more spreading growth habit. Prune according to the tree’s natural growth pattern to maintain its shape and health. Most hardwood trees need to be pruned differently from softwoods. For example, pines (softwood) typically develop a strong central leader and should be pruned lightly, if at all, to avoid disrupting their natural form. In contrast, deciduous trees like maples or oaks (hardwoods) may benefit from more selective pruning to remove crossing branches or to thin the canopy for better air circulation. For trees with a spreading growth habit, such as some fruit trees, it's important to open up the center to allow sunlight to reach the inner branches, which can enhance fruit production. Also knowing whether your tree produces new growth at the tips (like pines) or along older wood (like fruit trees) will guide how and when you prune to encourage healthy development.

9. Watch for Pests and Diseases

Pruning can sometimes expose trees to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for signs of trouble, such as unusual spots or increased insect activity. Regular inspection helps catch problems early and allows for prompt treatment. Call us out for a consult if you have any questions!

10. Learn and Adapt

Pruning is as much an art as it is a science. The more you do it, the better you’ll understand how different trees respond to pruning. Don’t be afraid to learn from your mistakes and adapt your techniques as needed.

Pruning your trees properly isn’t just about keeping them looking good; it’s about ensuring they stay healthy and grow strong. By following these straightforward tips, you can enhance your tree’s longevity and beauty while keeping maintenance manageable.