Trimming your trees keeps them healthy, safe and looking good. But timing matters. Pruning at the wrong time of year can stress a tree or even help spread disease.
Late winter is usually best
For most trees, late winter or early spring is the best time to prune. The tree is still dormant, there are no leaves in the way, and fresh cuts heal quickly once spring growth begins.
The Alberta elm pruning ban
In Alberta, pruning elm trees is not allowed from April 1 to September 30. The rule helps prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease, which is carried by beetles that are attracted to fresh cuts. If you have elms, plan to trim them between October and March.
Dead or damaged branches can go anytime
Branches that are dead, broken or hanging dangerously should be removed as soon as possible, whatever the season. Just keep the elm rule in mind.
Signs your trees need trimming
- Branches touching your roof, siding or windows.
- Branches rubbing against each other.
- Low branches blocking walkways or driveways.
- Dead, broken or bare limbs.
- A thick canopy that blocks sunlight from your lawn.
For branches near power lines, always contact your utility company first.
Do not overdo it
A good rule of thumb is to remove no more than about a quarter of a tree's live canopy in one year. Heavy cutting can weaken the tree and trigger lots of fast, weak regrowth.
Trimming hedges and shrubs during the same visit keeps the whole yard looking neat and saves you an extra booking.
JSC offers tree and hedge trimming across Edmonton, Leduc, Beaumont and St. Albert. Get a free quote.