The Best Time of Year To Prune an Oak Tree

Martin’s Tree Service experts suggest oak tree pruning in Kitchener in the winter months. To help prevent oak wilt disease, it is recommended to prune between November and April. This disease occurs when the tree is most vulnerable in its growing season. The fungal disease is spread by insects that enter the wound sites in the bark. By pruning in the winter months, there are fewer insects to carry the disease and infect the tree.

Oak trees can be pruned at different levels of maturity, with simple tasks being able to be completed by a property owner. However, major pruning should be left up to the professionals, especially for large trees or upper branches. These jobs require specialized equipment and experience in tree climbing and trimming.

Basic Oak Tree Pruning

Basic oak tree pruning includes thinning or the removal of dead branches and clusters of dead leaves and twigs. Rubbing or crossed branches are also normally removed. With these simple pruning techniques, the tree will have more light and air circulation while keeping the weaker branches from absorbing nutrients better used by the healthy parts of the tree.

When there are several oak trees grouped together, crown raising is sometimes needed. This can be best described as creating an area that can be walked through or driven under. It is accomplished by cutting lower limbs up to 8 feet and clearing out the area around the lower portion of the tree. Experts typically raise a crown 21 third of the total height if a tree is shorter than 24 feet.

Simply cutting branches and limbs to make the tree smaller is known as reducing. This technique is sometimes necessary over a house, near a chimney, or around power lines. Oak trees can stay in these locations as long as they have annual pruning, cutting the tree to the desired shape.

Cutting Oak Trees

During the winter months, oak tree branches should be cut approximately 3 inches from the intersection with another larger branch. The cutting should start from under the branch and go 1/3 of the way through. Next, a clean cut should be made as close as possible to the other branch, being careful not to cut into the remaining branch. It is essential to seal the wounds in oak trees because they are susceptible to disease and infestations from damaging insects. Some common sealants used on oak trees are non-asphalt sealants and latex paint.

Professional Tree Trimming

Trimming trees should always be left up to the professional, especially for larger trees and those with branches located near power sources. Our experts understand the complexity and safety concerns that come with tree trimming and pruning. 

Oak trees should be pruned regularly to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. They should also be trimmed to help thin out the canopy. By regularly trimming oak trees during the winter months, they will have the ability to stay strong and healthy year-round. For tree pruning in Kitchener, contact the experts at Martin’s Tree Service. We have the expertise and ability to take care of all your tree service needs. By offering full-service tree care, you can rest assured that the job will be done safely and correctly.