Most arborists will tell you it’s best to trim and prune trees during the colder months when they are dormant. However, there may be times when you must remove overgrown or dead branches when the weather’s a bit warmer to keep a tree healthy and looking its best — or manage a safety issue.
When this is the case, many homeowners come to Green Pointe Tree Care wanting to know, “Can you trim trees in the summer?” As locals’ first choice in tree services in Holladay, UT, we’ve got you covered with some tips and advice on summer pruning benefits and when and how to trim your trees during the warmer months.
Why Prune a Tree in the Summer?
While winter or spring tree pruning typically addresses structural issues within the tree and supports healthy growth, removing branches in the summer usually focuses on tree health maintenance. The most common reason to get out the saws and shears is diseased or damaged branch removal, but there are other reasons to consider summer pruning, including:
- Crown shaping, or opening up the crown to allow in more light and oxygen.
- Reshaping the tree to address rapid spring growth or an unbalanced tree.
- Keeping branches away from utility lines or buildings.
Ultimately, while it’s not always ideal, the answer to “Can you trim trees in the summer?” is yes, especially for fruit trees and those that produce sap, like maple and birch. The big exceptions are elm and oak trees. Pruning these trees in the summer can be dangerous as it encourages the spread of diseases that target these species, so it’s best to wait until the winter.
Summer Pruning Safety Guidelines for Healthy Trees
Warm-weather pruning can benefit your trees if you follow some key guidelines.
Only Trim Healthy Trees
If the tree is already struggling with pests or disease, summer pruning could make things worse by putting more stress on it. Consult with an arborist to determine the best course of action.
Avoid Over-Pruning
To protect a tree’s health, selectively prune the tree, removing less than one-quarter of the foliage. Removing too many branches can stress the tree and disrupt its growing cycle, causing long-term harm.
Prune During Cooler Weather
Successful seasonal pruning timing means avoiding the hottest part of the season. Extreme heat can stress trees; cutting in the early summer is best since the tree’s still in its growing cycle and will recover more quickly.
Water Deeply After Pruning
Trees need plenty of water after a summer pruning session, especially since warmer weather can cause dehydration. Spread mulch around the tree and water deeply several times a week.
Get More Tree Care Insights From Accomplished Arborists
If you have trees in your yard that are causing problems and you’re wondering, “Can you trim trees in the summer?” the answer is yes, with the caveat that you need to be strategic about where and when you prune. Better yet, leave the work to Green Pointe Tree Care experts and keep your Holladay, UT, trees healthy. For help with pruning and more garden maintenance tips, call (801) 608-6781.