There are ways to promote healthy tree growth while the plant isn’t actively growing. Pruning plants while they’re dormant in the winter months have many advantages. Most importantly, it prepares the plant for a healthy growth spurt in the spring.

Healthy Tree Growth Tips

Pruning during the dormant months is an easier task for several reasons:

1. Optimal access. Without leaves or fruit, limbs are lighter, and it’s easier to see any broken or diseased wood.
2. Less open to disease. Fresh pruning cuts are less likely to attract disease-­carrying insects or spread disease.
3. Less on the list. There’s less lawn and landscaping maintenance needed in the winter, so pruning during this time takes it off the to-do list during the busy spring months.
4. Less stress. Since the plants aren’t actively growing, you won’t be disrupting the process at all, or taking any energy away used to focus on growing.
5. Start the spring off right. By the time dormant season is over, pruned plants will be at their healthiest.

After Dormant Season

If the winter has passed you by and you haven’t pruned your plants, you can still get the job done in the spring for the following reasons:

1. Safety. Once the leaves have grown back, you may realize certain safety concerns. If the leafy branches block pathways or hit parts of the house, you may want to consider additional pruning.
2. Competing plants. Any tree growth that impedes the growth of other plants or other landscaping features should be cut back to limit the forming or spread of disease.

If you aren’t sure if your plants need pruning, speak with a qualified aborist or tree service about your situation and options.

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