Best Practices for Winter Tree Pruning

Why Prune in Winter?

Dormant-season pruning reduces disease risk and gives trees the best chance of vigorous spring regrowth.

Key Considerations

1. Timing: Wait until leaf fall is complete.
2. Species: Most deciduous hardwoods respond well; avoid pruning cherries and plums in winter.
3. Wound size: Keep final cuts as small as practical.

Professional arborists recommend scheduling crown work between November and February for optimal results.

For more guidance, consult BS 3998:2010 — the British Standard for tree work.