Before we begin, pruning can be a delicate and potentially dangerous task for you and your tree. We'll be reviewing the basics of pruning but please contact Our City Forest or your local urban forestry non-profit and see if they can provide you with assistance! Also check in with your local municipalities regarding pruning ordinances. Some cities manage trees and it may even be illegal to prune the trees in front of your house.

Prune in the dormant season (and get a permit)

At the risk of repeating myself, now is the time to prune. Most trees are sleeping through the winter, conserving their energy for spring and summer. While they’re dormant the trees transfer their sap in their roots. Any cuts you make to the tree will heal faster because they’ll start healing as spring arrives. Winter also means fewer insects, fungi and tree diseases are active so there’s less chance that the pruning wound will be colonized by pests. Trees also need pruning in order to grow properly. So give your tree some TLC and prune with me today.