It’s prime time to fortify and winter-proof your trees in Maryland to prepare for the rest of winter.
As the crisp November air has come and gone in Maryland, and with our first snowstorm of the season, it’s prime time to fortify and winter-proof your trees in Maryland to prepare for the rest of winter. Maryland’s climate deliver chilly spells, occasional ice storms, and freeze-thaw cycles that could stress even the hardiest maples and oaks. But with smart pruning and preparation, you can minimize damage from rodents, wind, and desiccation, setting the stage for a lively spring rebound! Read on to learn more about the best ways to winter-proof your Maryland trees!
When Should You Prune Your Maryland Trees?
The million dollar question is “when is the best time to prune trees in Maryland?” Hands down, late fall through early winter, or November to early March, is perfect for most deciduous species. With leaves off and sap flow halted, cuts will heal quicker and diseases risks like oak wilt aren’t as prevalent. In the fall, we limit pruning to dead or storm-damaged branches, and major pruning could trigger tender growth vulnerable to early frosts. This is why tree inspections are so important. At Harford Tree, we can prune what is needed now to protect the tree and your property from any damage. Then, we can come back during the spring to work on follow-up work. We usually do structural shaping in late winter, when the visibility is best and infection odds are the lowest.
The Kind of Tree Determines the Kind of Pruning
Each tree requires a little bit different approach to pruning. If you have fir trees, spruces, or hollies, then a light pruning now or anytime outside of peak growth also works well. Anytime after late summer leaves side buds intact for their natural form. Oaks might require a little more aggressive approach to pruning to prevent falling or storm damage.
Pruning Trees Safely in the Winter
One of the top questions many ask if how to prune safely in the winter. With Maryland’s common nor’easters it is important to focus on removing diseased, dead, crossing, and co-dominant stems to help bolster storm resistance. We suggest angle cuts, just outside the branch collar, no flush cuts or stubs, to help healing and deter decay. It is also important to thin the canopy to improve airflow and light penetration.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh and Middle River.
For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.