Winter is actually the perfect time to trim most deciduous trees. It makes it easier for trees to recover and allows for healthier growth overall. It’s also much easier to trim a tree during the winter. Since all the foliage is gone, arborists will be able to better see the tree’s true shape and aid in its growth. However, there are still some guidelines that arborists will follow to make sure they’re doing the job correctly.

Know When to Trim

Trimming trees too early in the winter could cause incisions to dry out if temperatures drop below freezing. Professional arborists know that the best time to trim trees is during late winter or even early spring, preferably on a mild, dry day. This will help prevent the spread of waterborne diseases or damage caused by freezing temperatures. Since trees are dormant when it’s cold, they also heal much quicker.

Start With Dead or Diseased Branches

The best reason to trim a tree is to remove dead or diseased branches. Not only will it stop diseases from spreading, but it will also allow the tree to devote more energy towards new growth. Professional arborists will focus on the branches that are affected by snow and ice. Never try to remove these branches yourself because one wrong move can lead to serious injury or damage to nearby property and power lines. It is always best to leave this work to the professionals because they have proper tools and gear, such as special saws, protective harnesses, and clothing, to do the job safely and correctly.

Continue With Overgrown and Smaller Branches

Removing overgrown or smaller branches will increase light and air at the tree’s crown and help maintain the tree’s shape. Arborists will remove any unwanted lower branches of evergreen trees as well. The goal is to maintain the tree’s true shape.

Cut Branches at the Node

For best results, cut all of the branches at the node. This is the point at which a tree branch or twig attaches to another. Contact a tree service for this job because they have the proper training and experience to make the cuts in the right places. Making the wrong cuts can seriously compromise or kill your tree.

If you work with an arborist who follows these winter trimming tips, you should have healthy trees that will have new growth in the spring. If you have any questions about properly trimming your trees or if you’re looking for a professional tree trimming service, contact Adrian’s Tree Service in Walled Lake, MI.