Winter is pruning time for shade and fruit trees, and for most summer-blooming trees and shrubs. Structural flaws are more visible when branches are bare. Plus, dormant pruning is healthy–pests and diseases aren’t around to cause trouble.
Hand pruners cut branches up to 3/4 inch in diameter. Long-handled loppers are good for limbs up to 2 1/2 inches across. For bigger branches, use a pruning saw.
Remove all branches that are crossing or rubbing on other branches and any dead or damaged limbs. If it hits you in the head when you mow–remove it.
Don’t leave stubs. Cut branches just above the spot where a limb meets the trunk or another branch. Cuts should be clean–tears indicate dull blades. Sharpen your tools.
After trees leaf out in the spring, take one more look and remove any dead branches you missed before.
There are tree wound products you can buy that are supposed to speed the healing of pruning cuts, but research shows they can seal in moisture and promote decay. In most cases, it is best to let cuts heal naturally. Branches will form protective callouses.
If you are not comfortable trimming your own trees and shrubs, give Nature’s Touch Landscaping a call and we will trim and haul away all the debris. Call 763-566-8457 for a free estimate.