There are strong arguments for and against summertime pruning. Pruning your trees during the hot season can both negatively impact root growth and promote robust fruiting. The key to making the most of your warm-weather tree maintenance is to seek the guidance of local tree care experts. The following is everything you need to know about the pros and cons of pruning in summer.

Pruning Is an Excellent Form of Pest Control

If you’ve recently spied termites swarming in your yard or have a roof that’s infested by tree-climbing animals, pruning could be the key to putting your pest problems to an end. Getting rid of old, weak, and diseased branches makes trees less vulnerable to invasive insects. Removing low-hanging branches will keep chipmunks and squirrels from bending, breaking, or detaching shingles, flashing, and other critical roofing elements due to easy roof access. Summer pruning can also help your fruit trees produce quality produce that isn’t riddled with blemishes and pests.

Careful Pruning Increases Light Penetration

Summertime pruning is great for thinning out dense canopies, especially for fruit trees. The right tactics will improve light penetration and support robust fruit production. You can increase your autumn haul by selectively removing upper limbs and branches. You can also reduce the risk of having heavy limbs come crashing down when late summer winds pick up.

Catch and Address Progressive Problems Early On

Fear of summertime pruning often leaves tree problems unchecked until the cool season arrives. Having tree care experts prune your trees during the warmer months gives them the chance to identify and treat diseases, infestations, and other progressive issues before they spiral out of control. Even if you have just a single infested or diseased tree in your yard, early interventions will protect all others.

Summer Pruning Drawbacks

Although there are definite benefits in pruning during the summer months, you have to know which trees will benefit from these efforts and which will suffer instead. Pruning your trees on your own when the weather is hot could cause more problems than it solves.

Aggressive pruning could slow the root growth of certain tree species. However, while diminished root growth is often viewed as a bad thing for overall tree health, it may be just what the doctor ordered if you have older trees with roots that are in danger of encroaching upon your underground utilities. It’s always best to outsource this work to professionals who understand the needs and nuances of each tree species in your yard.

With professional tree trimming services, you can make sure that the benefits of summertime pruning always outweigh the drawbacks. For quality trimming and pruning services in Salem, OR, get in touch with Altar Tree Service now!