Pruning Schedule

Pruning Schedule:

The correct time to prune ornamental, fruit, shade trees and shrubs is dependent on their species and geographic location. For precise pruning scheduling it is best to contact either a competent nursery or the agriculture department of your local university. The following information is a guideline only.

Coniferous trees and shrubs:

Coniferous trees (Figure 32) and shrubs, which include cedars, firs, junipers, pines and spruces may be pruned year around.& Pruning during the trees dormant season will lessen the flow of resins and saps from pruned limbs.

Coniferous tree

Figure 32 - Coniferous tree

Trees and shrubs that do not flower:

This group of plants, such as maple, oak (Figure 33) and elm, should be pruned in their dormant seasons, usually late fall and early winter, for a number of reasons:

Oak tree

Figure 33 - Oak tree

It is easier to see the natural form of the tree or shrub
It is easier to prune due to limited foliage
Allows for woundwood to form in the upcoming growing season
Lessens disease transmission such as Dutch Elm and Oak wilt fungus.
Reduces the amount of sap and resins that will flow from cut points.

Trees and shrubs that flower:

As a general statement, trees and shrubs that flower should also be pruned in their dormant seasons for the reasons expressed above. However, there are some additional guidelines that should be used in order to maintain a yearly flower crop.

Trees and shrubs such as redbud and dogwood (Figure 33a) are best pruned right after they flower. Flower buds should form on the new growth and open in the following spring.

Dogwood tree

Figure 33a - Dogwood tree

Trees and shrubs such as crabapple (Figure 34), hawthorn, pear, mountain ash and flowering quince are prone to a bacterial disease known as fireblight (Figure 35) that has a tendency to spread when the tree is pruned. To lessen the chance of spreading fireblight it is best to prune these types of trees and shrubs in their dormant seasons.

Crabapple tree

Figure 34 - Crabapple tree

Fireblight on ash tree

Figure 35 - Fireblight on ash tree

It is wise to obtain expert information from local sources before pruning these types of trees and shrubs.

There are a group of trees and shrubs that flower in the summer or fall and these plants should always be pruned in their dormant seasons. This will allow flower buds to be produced in time for the next growing season.

It should be noted that dead limbs, stems and branches can be pruned off any tree or shrub at any time without harming the plant. However, it is important that they are truly dead!