Late fall and early winter is the best time to prune because most trees have lost their leaves and their true structure is clearly visible. With the ability to clearly see a tree’s interior growth, a certified arborist can identify any problematic issues while making sound pruning decisions. That’s why Westcoast Tree Care would like to provide you with the following information regarding the benefits of late fall, early winter tree pruning in Whidbey Island.
Why Pruning Is Important
The removal of dead, dying or diseased branches ensure the overall health of a tree. Virtually all trees in Whidbey Island benefit from this type of periodic pruning. Pruning also improves the safety of the trees on your property as a certified arborist will remove any weak, unpredictable branches. Large branches and limbs that overhang your home, driveway, and walkways should be given particular attention.
Another reason to have your trees pruned is appearance. Pruning can boost the curb appeal of your home by controlling the size of a tree, improving its form and keeping it well proportioned thus enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property.
Pruning also aids younger trees in their development as they grow. Structural defects in older trees could have often been prevented by pruning when it was younger. With proper care, pruning can help a tree develop a strong, central stem and maintain adequate branch size and distribution. By enlisting the help of a certified arborist, wound size and loss of live branches will be minimized during the pruning process.
Why Autumn & Winter Are The Best Times To Prune
During the winter, trees are in a dormant state. This makes it the ideal time for pruning wounds to heal before new spring growth occurs. Pruning during the spring and summer months is much riskier as disease, fungi, and insects are often attracted by fresh cuts.
Timing is especially important for trees that produce fruit or flowers. If your goal is to enhance flowering, the best time to prune is late fall and winter. However, for trees that bloom earlier in the growing season, it’s best to prune after they finish blooming.
Right Time, Right Place
Even if you knew a doctor was a skilled surgeon, you wouldn’t undergo a medical procedure without understanding it first. The same should go with tree pruning, especially when it makes a significant impact on a trees health, beauty, and structural integrity. Understanding why cuts should be made is the basis for determining where and what to prune. The ability to see a tree’s form during the late fall and winter season helps a certified arborist to identify issues that might otherwise go undetected, making this the ideal time for a preventative tree care evaluation.
Whidbey Island Tree Care
Preventative tree care and pruning are important when it comes to ensuring robust spring growth while reducing the likelihood of disease or insect infestations. If you would like more information about our tree pruning services, contact Westcoast Tree Care at 1.800.767.8733. Our certified arborist would be more than happy to inspect your trees and answer any questions you may have. We can also provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote for any of our preventative tree care services.
