3815 West Carrier Road, Enid, Oklahoma 73703, United States
A beautiful lawn doesn't happen by itself. It takes hard work, dedication, and the right team.
Tree trimming & removal
kNOWLEDGE IS KNOWING A TOMATO IS A FRUIT
Best Times to Trim Trees and Shrubs for Healthy Growth
Pruning trees and shrubs is essential for maintaining their health, promoting growth, and enhancing their appearance. However, timing is crucial. trimming at the wrong time can stress plants and affect their ability to thrive.
This guide covers the best times to prune different types of trees and shrubs to ensure optimal results.
Why Timing Matters in Pruning
Pruning at the right time ensures:
• Healthy Growth – Encourages strong branch development and prevents disease.
• Flowering and Fruiting – Maximizes blooms and fruit yield.
• Pest and Disease Control – Reduces the risk of infections and infestations.
Best Times to Trim Trees and Shrubs
1. Winter (Late Dormancy) – Best for Most Trees
Best for: Deciduous trees, fruit trees, and many shrubs
• Ideal pruning period: Late winter (January to March) before new growth begins.
• Why? Trees are dormant, making it easier to shape them without causing stress. Sap loss is minimal, and wounds heal quickly in spring.
Exceptions:
• Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs (e.g., lilacs, forsythia) in winter, as it will remove flower buds.
2. Spring (After Blooming) – Best for Spring-Flowering Shrubs
Best for: Forsythia, azaleas, lilacs, rhododendrons
• Ideal pruning period: Right after flowers fade (April to June).
• Why? These plants develop flower buds on last year's growth, so trimming right after blooming prevents cutting off next year’s flowers.
Exceptions:
• Avoid heavy pruning of trees, as sap is actively flowing, which may cause excessive bleeding (e.g., maples, birches).
3. Summer (Mid to Late Season) – Best for Minor Shaping
Best for: Hedges, fast-growing shrubs, and trees needing minimal shaping
• Ideal pruning period: June to August.
• Why? Pruning helps maintain the shape of plants and control excessive growth. This is also a good time to remove dead or damaged branches.
Exceptions:
• Avoid major cuts on trees and shrubs, as summer pruning can reduce energy reserves needed for growth.
4. Fall (Avoid Major Pruning)
Best for: Light touch-ups, removal of dead or diseased branches
• Ideal pruning period: September to early October.
• Why? While it’s tempting to prune in the fall, cutting back too much can stimulate new growth that won’t survive winter.
Exceptions:
• Avoid heavy pruning of most plants, as it can make them vulnerable to frost damage.
Special Considerations for Different Trees and Shrubs:
Evergreens (Pines, Spruces, Hollies)
• Best pruned in late winter to early spring.
• Light shaping can be done in summer but avoid cutting back into old wood.
Fruit Trees (Apples, Peaches, Cherries, etc.)
• Best pruned in late winter for structural shaping.
• Light summer pruning can help manage fruit production.
Hedges (Boxwood, Privet, Yew)
• Trim in late spring and again in mid-summer to maintain shape.
Roses
• Hybrid teas and floribundas: Prune in early spring when buds begin to swell.
• Shrub roses: Prune lightly after flowering.
Conclusion:
Understanding when to prune trees and shrubs ensures they remain healthy and attractive year-round. For most trees and shrubs, late winter is the best time for major pruning, while summer and fall are best for minor shaping and maintenance. Always research specific plant needs before trimming to avoid damaging them.
About Us
Experienced Team
With 40 years of experience in the Lawn, tree, and landscape industry Enid Lawn company is centered on the idea of knowledgeable teamwork. We make sure each member of our team understands best practices.
Detail Oriented Service
Our company pays special attention to the details of our work to ensure the complete satisfaction of each client.