Winter Pruning

It seems that as trees go dormant during the winter, so do most people's interest in them.

Winter pruning can be easy to disregard because most trees are not viewed as landscape pieces during this time, they lack the lush foliage and vibrant flowers that make them so attractive. However, winter is

a great time to prune!

Since the tree is bare of leaves it is easy for one to see the overall shape and structure of the tree. With this unobstructed view it is easier to determine which parts may be unbalanced, overextended or overcrowded. Also if the pruning is done before Spring leaf-out, the tree won't waste energy and resources growing leaves on a section that will eventually be removed. There is also a greatly reduced risk of insect pests and pathogens attacking the tree during this frigid season.