Tree cutting in winter

You might be relieved that you have finally sorted the garden out for the last time this year, no more weeding and no more pruning but there is one thing that you should try and not ignore and that would be your trees.

Winter is a great time to get the trees pruned, the shorter days and cooler temperatures put them into dormancy, which is deal. Most of the leaves have gone and the tree structure is clearly visible. With a direct sightline to the tree’s interior growth habits, it is often easier for an arborist to identify structural issues and make good pruning decisions.

There are lots of benefits to pruning our trees in the winter, but before you do you must consider everything involved. Is its proximity to close to building or any power lines? What condition is it already in? Is there any structural damage to the tree? What functions does the tree provide the landscape and will these be impacted by pruning it?

Pruning will alter both the form and growth of the tree, so asking questions like these should be made before pruning.

Benefits of pruning in winter:

• The visibility of the structure is much better, allowing for more precise cutting.
• If pruned while in dormancy it will cause the tree less damage
• Spring is the best time of year for trees to recover so cutting in winter means faster recovery.
• Some varieties of trees are more susceptible to disease when pruned with leaves still on.