During the winter months, shrubs and trees enter what is known as the dormant state. This is when deciduous trees and plants take a “rest” until the warm spring temperatures gently wake them to promote new growth.
Before the winter sets in, it’s a good idea to carry out some winter pruning. There are a number of benefits to doing this.
Easier to Identify Any Tree Problems
Once the leaves have dropped from your trees, it’s easier to see the entire structure of your trees and identify any problems that may have been missed when the tree was in full leaf. A trained arborist will be able to see if there are any dangerous or dead branches and determine whether the tree needs to be pruned in order to keep it safe and looking its best.
Rejuvenate Trees and Shrubs
Pruning in late winter is a great way to rejuvenate or contain overgrown trees and shrubs. They will recover quickly once spring comes around and cutting them back will actually promote new and healthy growth.
Less Stressful on Trees
Avoid the Spread of Diseases
Serious diseases can wipe out your most prized trees and shrubs if you let them. Winter pruning can help to avoid the spread of common diseases that can be spread easily during the spring and summer months. These diseases include Dutch elm disease, fire blight and oak wilt.
Less Stressful on Trees
Fall pruning can actually promote new growth that is killed off by winter frost, causing damage and disfiguration to your trees. However, dormant pruning does not stimulate new growth until the warmer weather starts.
Prevents Winter Damage
Dead, damaged or dying trees can be dangerous during the winter months, especially if we get a lot of storms or a heavy snowfall. Dormant pruning helps to rejuvenate weak and damaged trees by removing dead and diseased wood. Dead trees should ideally be removed before the winter sets in.
Protect Your Trees This Winter
If you are worried about a dead or damaged tree or simply need advice on how to protect and maintain your plants, trees and shrubs during the winter months, call us at (413) 525-0060 or click to contact us