As the snow melts away and the buds on trees start to emerge, spring is an excellent time to trim your trees. Proper tree trimming can improve the health and appearance of your trees, and also enhance the safety of your property.

Here are some tips for tree trimming in spring:

Wait for the Right Time

While spring is a great time for tree trimming, it's important to wait for the right time.

• Timing: if you trim your trees too early in the spring, you risk exposing them to frost damage. Similarly, if you wait too long to trim your trees, they may already have started growing, making it more difficult to achieve your desired results. The best time to trim your trees is in the early to mid-spring, when the weather is mild and the trees are still dormant.

Start with Dead or Damaged Branches

When trimming your trees, it's important to prioritize dead or damaged branches.

• Culling: these branches can be a hazard to your property and the surrounding area, as they may fall off at any time. By removing these branches, you'll make your property safer and promote healthier growth in your trees.

Remove Suckers and Water Sprouts

Suckers and water sprouts are small branches that grow out of the trunk or branches of your tree.

• Removing: while they may seem harmless, they can actually fatigue your tree and cause it to become less stable. By removing these branches, you'll promote healthier growth in your tree and improve its overall appearance.

Avoid Over-Pruning

While it may be tempting to trim your trees extensively, over-pruning can actually harm your trees.

• Pruning: removing too many branches can weaken your tree and make it more vulnerable to disease and pests. In general, it's best to remove no more than 25% of the tree's canopy in a single year.

Hire a Professional

If you're not comfortable trimming your trees yourself, or if your trees require extensive trimming, it's best to hire a professional.

• Pro: a professional arborist can help you assess your trees' needs, recommend the best course of action, and ensure that your trees are trimmed safely and effectively.

Spring is an excellent time for tree trimming, but it's important to wait for the right time and to prioritize dead or damaged branches. By following these tips, you'll promote healthier growth in your trees, enhance the safety of your property, and improve the overall appearance of your landscape.

Contact a tree trimming service to learn more.