If you’re looking for an excuse to get outdoors during the winter months, winter gardening is a great light but beneficial activity. For many reasons, winter is a great time to shape hedges, cover garden beds, and even trim trees.
If you’ve taken a look outside and noticed some particularly ragged-looking trees, your lawn or outdoor space might benefit from tree trimming. If you’re ready to get some fresh air and help your trees thrive in the Spring, have a look at our guide for trimming trees in winter. For more direct answers and targeted help, reach out to our team at Go Pro Professional Property Care. We’re tree trimming experts in Cooper city, and we help your outdoor spaces stay green and thriving.
Why Trimming in Winter is Best
Because warmer seasons are more inviting for outdoor activities, it seems natural to trim trees during these favorable periods. However, there are several reasons why trimming in the winter is ideal.
Improved Visibility
During the winter months, foliage on deciduous trees has fallen off. For this reason, the shape and structure of the tree are more visible than in the Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons. Improved visibility makes it easier to shape the tree and identify damaged or diseased branches.
Growth Dormancy
While trees can be trimmed during any time of the year, pruning in winter targets the trees while they are in their dormant state. Trees grow during the spring and summer seasons, expending energy on photosynthesis, budding, and other processes. Trimming trees in winter allows trees to focus their energy on healing the cuts and preparing for new, healthy growth.
Disease Protection
As with any organism, cutting a tree leaves an open avenue for infection, disease, and other problems to set in. The cold, dry air of the winter season reduces the chance of fungal or viral infections entering the tree, making winter a safe time to trim most trees.
Tips for Trimming Trees
If you’re considering giving your trees a winter haircut, here are some tips to ensure you’re helping your trees stay strong. If you’re unsure how to get started, reach out to us for advice, estimates, and more.
#1: Know the Tree’s Species
Proper pruning begins with knowing which species of tree you’re dealing with. Certain types of trees shouldn’t be pruned in winter, while others benefit.
#2: Consider the Tree’s Health
If your tree is overgrown and tangled with branches, this is most likely a sign of health and means it’s time to prune. However, diseased and damaged branches also indicate the need for trimming.
#3: Plan for the Tree’s Function
Many trees are strategically placed on properties for shade, aesthetics, and other reasons. If it’s a shade tree, consider leaving longer branches. Conversely, if the tree obstructs visibility in public places, consider trimming the tree back for improved safety.
#4: Avoid the Lead Branch
The lead or “leader” branch is the main branch extending from the trunk of the tree. Avoid cutting or damaging this central stalk, and choose lateral branches instead.
#5: Create Clean Cuts
Use notch cuts and relief cuts while cutting downward with sharp pruning sheers to ensure clean, healthy cuts during tree trimming.
#6: Keep Two-Thirds of Branches Untouched
To preserve your tree’s health, leave around two-thirds of the tree uncut. Never cut more than one-third of the tree’s healthy branches off at a time.
Trust the Experts
Trained lawn and tree care professionals know the difference between species of trees and can spot disease and damage where others can’t. If you’re considering trimming trees in winter for improved sunlight penetration and increased air circulation, reach out for lawn care by Go Pro Professional Property Care today.
