Dormant season basics
Late fall through winter is the most common pruning window for deciduous trees. Without leaves, structure is easy to see, cuts heal quickly in spring and many pests and diseases are inactive.
Oaks need special timing
Oak wilt and related problems spread through fresh wounds in warm months. Prune oaks in the dormant season and avoid cutting from spring through early summer unless it is an emergency.
Spring bloomers
Redbud, dogwood, magnolia, cherry and many ornamentals set flower buds the year before. Prune them right after they bloom so you do not remove next year's flowers.
Summer bloomers
Crape myrtles and other summer bloomers flower on new wood. Light pruning in late winter encourages new growth and bloom without the need to cut back hard.
Fruit trees and evergreens
Most fruit trees are pruned in late winter. Evergreens are best lightly pruned in late spring or early summer. Many conifers cannot regrow from bare wood, so go lightly.
Emergencies any time
A broken or hanging limb should be removed as soon as it is safe, whatever the season. Storm damage and hazards come first.
Prune most trees in winter, spring bloomers after they flower and oaks only when dormant.
