“When is the best time to prune is perhaps the most commonly asked question of an arborist, followed by “Is this a good time to prune?”  Seems like a simple reply should follow but the question is very open ended if examined with an open mind!

I recall a grafting demonstrator at a nursery field day replying the traditional answer was, “When the pruners were sharp.” That seemed to work pretty well, to a large degree, if the primary precepts of safe pruning cuts were adhered to. The first and foremost being, avoid making heading cuts – especially into 2 year or older wood; Do make THINNING cuts. Followed by, make cuts in a way that doesn’t damage wood of the trunk or branch remaining.

Okay, with a little reading or demonstration followed by some practice that was pretty easy. But the more I learned about insects and diseases affecting specific plant specie, genera and families depending on the season of the year, it was apparent many considerations were involved with the topic of when to prune. And since insects and disease cycles are affected most by the current weather, the answer changes daily.

Accordingly, you should expect a mix of answers and questions as thoughts regarding a useful time to prune develop.

I think it makes the most sense to treat each consideration with its own post.