Best time for tree pruning

There are several prevalent myths and beliefs concerning the proper time trees should be pruned. For instance, it is a myth that trees, especially maples and birch, should not be pruned in the spring because they “bleed” sap. Similarly, there is a commonly held belief that trees cannot be pruned in the winter.

The truth is that tree pruning done according to proper arboricultural guidelines can be accomplished at any time of the year. Trees pruned in the spring may “bleed” sap, but that has absolutely no effect on the tree as the amount of sap loss is inconsequential. Similarly, winter tree pruning is great because trees are dormant during the colder months, so pruning wounds will only be exposed until new growth begins in spring. Also in winter tree structure is more visible, making it easier to see and attend to potential problems.