Trees need year-round care to ensure they remain healthy. The fall season can be a good time for tree pruning as long as you take the right precautions. There are some exceptions to consider as well, which we go over below while discussing the pros and cons of fall pruning.
Pros
The top pro associated with fall pruning is it’s easier to prune. You don’t have to worry about disturbing nearby trees since they usually have already shed their leaves. It’s also easier to see what’s being done to the tree without leaves getting in the way or worrying about damaging buds.
Branches cut back in the fall should recover more easily in the spring than if you have them trimmed or pruned in the spring or summer. It’s also easier to look for signs of tree diseases during fall pruning. Other benefits associated with autumn tree trimming include:
- Preparing your trees for spring growth
- Minimizing the risk of spreading tree diseases
- Easier to bring in heavy equipment as there’s more room with bare trees
- Reducing the risk of damage to your trees
Cons
Pruning too early can damage trees. You have to wait until trees are completely dormant and no longer actively growing for effective pruning. Other drawbacks of fall pruning include the following:
- Pruning wounds close more slowly in the fall and winter, increasing risk for fungal diseases.
- It’s more difficult to tell whether a branch is dead in the fall.
- Fall pruning may make some trees more susceptible to insect damage.
Also, some trees are better off being pruned in the spring. These include fruit-bearing trees and flowing trees. Dormant pruning will remove the flower buds on early spring-blooming plants. Delay pruning until just after flowering is finished. It’s also best to prune trees that are blooming in the summer or early spring. Walnut, birch, and maple trees are examples of these.
Also note that over-pruning can also stress trees, which can be damaging during their growing season.
Tree Pruning Exceptions
The exception with pruning is for trees that are damaged or fallen, or dead or diseased. Sometimes, these trees may need to be removed entirely if they can’t be saved. This is also true with trees that are leaning severely or ones that are too close to your home. It’s easier to remove trees in the fall since it’s easier to bring in the equipment needed to do this work. There’s less risk of damaging other trees.
Contact Central Arbor Tree Care in Peoria, IL today to schedule tree trimming or pruning service.
