The Best Time of Year to Prune Trees in Northern Nevada

Pruning is more than just cutting branches — it’s about guiding the health, structure, and safety of your trees. Proper pruning can:

• Improve overall tree shape and balance
• Remove dead, damaged, or hazardous limbs
• Increase sunlight and airflow through the canopy
• Reduce storm and wind damage
• Prevent diseases from spreading
• Encourage new, healthy growth

Neglecting pruning for too long can lead to weak branch unions, overgrowth, and even costly removals down the line.

Late Winter to Early Spring (Best Overall Time)

January through March is generally the best window for most trees in our region. During dormancy, trees are less susceptible to stress, disease, or insect damage. Pruning before new growth begins in spring allows wounds to close quickly and promotes vigorous growth.

Common trees that benefit from late-winter pruning:

• Ash
• Maple
• Elm
• Oak
• Locust
• Fruit trees (apple, pear, etc.)

Pro Tip: Dormant pruning also gives you a clearer view of a tree’s structure, making it easier to identify weak limbs or potential hazards before spring storms arrive.

Summer Pruning (For Shape and Growth Control)

June through August can also be a good time to prune if your goal is to slow growth or maintain shape. By mid-summer, most of the tree’s energy has been spent on new growth, so light pruning won’t overstimulate additional shoots.

This is also the right time to:

• Remove low-hanging branches that obstruct pathways or driveways
• Clean up suckers and water sprouts
• Thin interior growth for better airflow

Be cautious with heavy pruning in summer — cutting too much can stress the tree during hot, dry weather. Always water deeply after summer pruning.

Fall and Early Winter (Avoid Heavy Pruning)

As temperatures drop and trees prepare for dormancy, avoid major pruning in the fall. Fresh cuts can stimulate new growth that may be damaged by early freezes. However, it’s fine to remove broken, dead, or hazardous branches at any time of year for safety reasons.

Species-Specific Tips for Northern Nevada Trees

• Aspen and Cottonwood: Prune during dormancy (winter) to reduce sap flow and prevent decay.
• Pine and Spruce: Light pruning in late winter or early spring; avoid cutting into the main trunk.
• Fruit Trees: Annual pruning in late winter promotes better fruit yield and shape.
• Ornamental Trees: Light shaping can be done in summer to maintain aesthetics.

Why Hire a Certified Arborist

Pruning might look simple, but doing it wrong can harm your trees for years. Certified arborists are trained to recognize growth patterns, disease indicators, and structural weaknesses that homeowners often miss.

At Silver State Tree Co., we:

• Follow ISA standards for proper pruning techniques
• Use clean, professional-grade equipment
• Assess each tree’s species, age, and health before cutting
• Focus on long-term tree vitality, not just short-term appearance

Schedule Your Pruning Service Today

Healthy trees add safety, beauty, and value to your property — but only when they’re cared for correctly. Whether it’s a few trees in your yard or a full property management plan, our Reno and Sparks arborists are ready to help.

Call Silver State Tree Co. at (775) 303-5903 or fill out our online form to request a free estimate today. Let’s keep your trees thriving for years to come.