About Winter Tree Pruning

An important part of landscape maintenance involves properly caring for the trees in the area. Trees that are properly trimmed will grow more lush and full. Learning about winter tree pruning is a great step towards having healthy, beautiful trees year round. There are a number of different factors the person should consider before beginning to prune.

Why to Prune in Winter

During the winter most trees have gone dormant, meaning that their growth has stalled. While dormant the trees will be less likely to scar or contract an illness from the wound. At this time of year the leaves have already fallen. This makes it easier for the person to see the shape of the tree, and remove the proper branches.

Which Branches to Remove

While trees are pruned for appearance, they should also be trimmed to improve growth and health. Branches and sections of the plant that seem dead or sick should be pruned away first. This can help keep illness form spreading and encourage growth in the spring and summer. Branches that have growth out of bounds or are growing across other branches can also be trimmed.

Cuts

The cuts made to the tree should be clean. This means that the branches should not be partially cut and then broken off. This will leave a rough edge, which can lead to stunted growth or illness. The cuts should be made at branching point on the tree. Branching points are areas where one branch has sprouted from the trunk or another branch.

Tools

The tools used to trim the tree should be cared for correctly. Several different types of pruning tools can be used to prune a tree. These tools should be kept sharp. A sharp edge will ensure a clean cut. The person should also oil the tools. This will make it easier to work them. They should also be washed after each plant. Pruning two different plants with the same shears without washing could spread disease.