How to Prune Trees
Photo credit: Austin Tree Specialists
When To Prune Your Tree
The best time to prune depends on the type of tree.
| Type of Tree | When To Prune |
|---|---|
| Maples | July |
| Birches | July |
| Other deciduous trees | January - April |
| Fruit trees | See Pruning Fruit Trees - Ontario Minsitry of Agriculture and Food |
| Evergreens | Pruning is not recommended, however, the least damaging time is May - June |
Elm Pruning Bylaw
Elm trees can only be pruned from October 1st to March 31st when elm bark beetles are inactive. For more information please see the Community Standards Bylaw 14600.Pruning Tips
- Keep your pruning tools sharp and clean.
- Never prune out more than one quarter of the tree crown at a time. If your tree requires a lot of pruning, spread it out over several years.
- Remove all diseased limbs, dead and dying limbs, and crossing branches.
For more pruning information, see Trees Are Good.
For More Information
| Telephone | In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 |
|---|---|
| Fax | 780-496-4978 |
| citytrees@edmonton.ca |
