When is the best time to prune or trim the trees on your property? If the tree branches or foliage have turned into safety hazards, the best time for trimming and pruning is always now. You would be surprised how quickly some tree species can grow. You don’t want to wait until the branches of your Valley Oak are close to touching utility poles or power lines. As for whether it is better to trim when temperatures are warmer, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider, and they come down to the regional climate and tree species.
The Pros of Hot Weather Tree Trimming
The hot and dry weather conditions in the areas we serve can stress trees, thus making them more susceptible to pest infestations and fungal diseases. Trimming removes dead or diseased branches, which can reduce these risks. In some cases, doing so when the temperatures are warmer can prevent the spread of disease or infestation if the affected branches are cut down in time.
Some homeowners and commercial property managers prefer a more strategic approach to trimming and pruning. The idea is to improve airflow around the property by getting the trimming done just before the dog days of summer. Strategic trimming can enhance air circulation around the property, promoting a natural cooling effect on windy days.
Perhaps the most significant argument in favor of trimming during hot weather is the species’ overall health. Healthy trees experience faster wound healing during the summer, particularly for native species that thrive in Mediterranean and desert climates. The advantage is the low humidity, which keeps moisture in check to prevent the spread of fungal colonies.
The Cons of Hot Weather Tree Trimming
Trimming is always stressful to trees, and some species tend to be more sensitive in this regard during the summer, especially some exotic species that do not handle hot temperatures well. If we see a weak or sick tree on your property that should only be lightly pruned to promote its recovery, we will let you know, and you can get a full trimming done when temperatures are cooler. Minor trimming for safety or aesthetics is always less stressful than major pruning in any season.
Removing leaves reduces a tree’s ability to nourish through photosynthesis, which can happen to some species even if the leaves are dry and brown. As previously mentioned, our arborists will tell you if trimming specific species during the hottest days of summer would be detrimental.
The final consideration is also specific to some species and how their foliage develops during the spring. Native trees such as the Valley Oak can withstand trimming before, during, and after the spring, but other species are better off pruning after the dog days because of their more delicate healing process.
The decision to trim your trees during hot weather should be informed by the specific needs of your property, the regional climate, and the species of trees involved. For expert advice and tree services tailored to your requirements, contact Roots Up Tree Company in Boulder, CO today.
