It might seem too early to consider pruning trees; after all there may be snow on the ground! However, late winter to early spring (mid-February through early March) is the ideal time to prune most trees that are at least two years old. This is when trees are in a period of dormancy when they take a break and stop producing new growth. Pruning before new growth starts to appear helps build a strong structure, minimizes impact on tree health, and allows optimal wound closure and healing.

Below are some tips to ensure a successful pruning project:

• Before you pick up those pruners, loppers or a saw, make a pruning plan. Know what you want to accomplish, such as creating good structure, removing crossing or rubbing branches, raising the canopy height, etc. Don’t remove living branches without a specific goal in mind.
• If the job requires removing large branches or the use of a chainsaw or other large tools above your head, it’s best to contact an insured, ISA Certified Arborist. A list of these professionals can be found at http://www.isa-arbor.com.
• Use the proper tools for the job and ensure they are clean and in good condition.
• Hand pruners can be used on branches less than one-half inch thick. Loppers should be used for branches one to one-and-one-half inches in diameter. Pole pruners or extension saws can be used to reach higher branches, provided they are sharp enough to make clean cuts. Hand saws of varying sizes can also be used effectively.
• The amount of pruning from a tree at one time depends on its age, species and condition. Pruning too much in one year will put undue stress on the tree. A tree in its active growth phase can withstand pruning 10% – 25% of their live wood, while mature trees that have reached 75% of their mature size should only have 5% – 10% of their live wood removed.
• Remove all torn, dead or broken branches at any time of the year.
• Finally, build confidence in your ability to properly prune your trees by reading the following resources available from Colorado State University (CSU):

CMG GardenNotes #612 Pruning Cuts https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/612.pdf

CMG GardenNotes #613 Structural Pruning of Young Shade Trees https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/613.pdf

CMG GardenNotes #615 Pruning Mature Shade Trees https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/615.pdf

CMG GardenNotes #617 Pruning Evergreens https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/Gardennotes/617.pdf

Plant Talk Colorado 1724 – Pruning Shade Trees https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/trees-shrubs-vines/1724-pruning-shade-trees/

Plant Talk Colorado 1721 – Why Prune Shade Trees? https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/trees-shrubs-vines/1721-prune-shade-trees/