Anton Cagle

Apr 30

3 min read

Answers to Common Tree Trimming Questions

What is the recommended amount to trim trees?

When you trim your trees during mid to late winter, it can encourage new growth as the weather starts to warm up in Spring. Between the months of November and March are generally considered the best time to trim your trees. The worst time to tree trim is late summer and early fall. If you trim your trees during this time frame, it can encourage new growth that won't be able to survive the winter.

With this being said, it’s okay to do a few touch-ups in the warmer months. But it’s also worth noting that if you trim your trees too much in the summer and fall, it could lead to permanent tree damage.

When is the best time to trim trees in Wisconsin?

In Madison, Wisconsin, it’s recommended to trim your trees when the leaves start to fall and it starts to get cooler outside. The lack of leaves on the trees will allow you to see which branches need to be trimmed or which trees are diseased. A tree could be diseased if there is decay or fungi present, peeling or loose bark around the tree’s collar, drooping branches, or small holes in the tree trunk.

Additionally, it's wise to avoid tree trimming during periods of extreme cold or when the tree is wet, as this can potentially harm the tree. Consulting with a professional from a tree trimming service can provide tailored advice based on the specific tree you are concerned about

Anytime that you cut away part of the tree, a wound is left behind. When you prune or trim a tree, you want to create small wounds instead of larger wounds. This includes trimming away buds and twigs, as opposed to larger branches.

The reason why you want to avoid creating large wounds on trees, is because large wounds make a tree more susceptible to pests and diseases. Using tree removal services can be helpful if you are concerned about damaging your tree too much during the trimming process.

When is the best time to use tree loppers for pruning?

The best time to use tree loppers for tree trimming depends on the type of pruning you intend to do and the specific trees involved. However, in general, you may want to use a tree lopper when you notice trees in your yard have dead or damaged branches, or if a tree appears to be sick. It's crucial to use the right tools, including tree loppers appropriate for the size of branches you're pruning, and to follow proper pruning techniques to avoid damaging the tree.

If your trees need to be trimmed, or need to use a tree removal service, it’s a good idea to start the process between the months of November and March. This is typically when most trees are experiencing their dormant stage. Dormancy in trees is a process where a tree’s growth slows down. This means the tree will stop producing new leaves. Dormancy often starts in late fall.

Dormancy can also occur in drought conditions or if the trees are experiencing extreme stress. Also, tree trimming during this period will minimize stress on the trees since they aren’t actively growing. However, not all tree species are the same. Deciduous trees, evergreen trees, and coniferous trees should be trimmed during their dormant season. Flowering trees on the other hand should be trimmed right after flowering or in the late winter and early Spring.