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Pruning, not topping, best if done in February or March
Missouri
Late February or March is the best time to prune shade trees according to Gaylord Moore, horticulture specialist, University of Missouri Extension.
"Pruning is not an activity I universally advocate. Instead, I recommend pruning for a purpose. Dead limbs, crossed limbs, wind damage or overhanging limbs that are a threat to a house are all reasons that justify pruning of trees," said Moore.
Homeowners also sometimes prune trees to limit their size, especially those growing under power lines. However, Moore sees this method of control as unfortunate.
"It is more preferable to select a low-growing tree if it is to be planted near or under a power line. That way, they won't need to be pruned. Homeowners should consider the mature size of a tree when planting one near a house or building," said Moore.
Tree "topping" is the non-selective cutting of all the branches of the tree. It can be as non-invasive as reducing the length of all the tree limbs or as extreme as only leaving the trunk of the tree and some short branches of the main trunk.
"There is never a good time for topping. Some folks believe topping concentrates the vigor of the tree into a reduced area but actually the opposite happens. The limbs that rapidly grow back are weaker and more vulnerable to damage," said Moore.
Topping also exposes larger limb cuts to insects, disease and rot.
"A homeowner is effectively reducing the life of the tree by topping it. The tree may live for many years afterward, but its life will be shortened over the genetic potential of the tree, had topping not occurred," said Moore.
For more information on pruning trees, contact the University of Missouri Extension office in your county and request guide sheet G6866, "Pruning and Care of Shade Trees." This information is also available online at http://muextension.missouri.edu/xplor.
Date: 2/21/05
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