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Trees are pruned to remove dead and unproductive branches, to control diseases and to make trees structurally safe and balanced. The following tips will help you accomplish this objective without causing undue harm to your private tree. (If a public tree requires pruning, make a request by calling 311 or emailing citytrees@edmonton.ca)

Know when to prune your tree!

The best time to prune depends on the species. Prune maples and birches in June or July, fruit trees in March and other deciduous trees between January and April. Pruning of evergreens is not recommended, however if you must, the least damaging time is from May to June. Remember, by law, elm trees can only be pruned from October 1st to March 31st when elm bark beetles are inactive.

Keep your pruning tools sharp and clean.

Cuts should be made next to the branch collar, which is the swollen area where the branch attaches to the trunk, but make sure you do not cut into the collar. Cuts made in this fashion allow the tree to close the wound properly.

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.

Prune diseased trees with special care, disinfecting the tools with bleach or methyl hydrate between cuts to reduce the risk of spreading disease organisms.

Follow these simple steps when pruning trees:

• Prune out all diseased limbs ensuring the cuts are made well inside uninfected areas
• Remove all dead and dying limbs
• Remove branches that are obstructive or at face level when you are mowing the lawn etc.
• Remove the smaller of any branches that cross over and rub one another
• Take out branches that disrupt the symmetry or natural shape of the tree crown