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Not all evergreen conifers need to be pruned, but some do. Pruning pine trees is not necessary, but you can do so during June and July if you wish. On the other hand, spruce, firs, and junipers do need to be pruned from late winter to early spring.

Late August, September, and mid-October are the ideal months for planting a young tree. However, the best time to plant a tree ultimately depends on when the weather transitions to fall-like conditions and eventually winter frost. As long as the hottest days of summer have passed and the ground hasn’t frozen yet, you can still successfully plant trees.

It is possible to cut down a tree on your property yourself, but it is generally not recommended unless specific conditions are met. You should only consider this project if the tree is small (e.g., under 4-5 inches in diameter and short enough that you don't need a ladder to reach the branches), and you are experienced in handling a chainsaw. The tree must also be located far from any power lines, fences, homes, or other structures. Even for small trees, the work can be dangerous, and it's always advisable to have a spotter to ensure the tree falls correctly and no branches fall on you.

For any tree that is large, requires a ladder to access, or is near electrical lines or structures, you should always hire a professional. Attempting to remove a large tree yourself is extremely dangerous, poses a risk of serious injury, and could result in significant damage to your property.

Before any tree removal, it's also important to check your local and state regulations to ensure the tree is not historic or otherwise protected by your city.

For Bradford pears, damage from storms is common, and if the trunk splits, it can pose a danger to people and surrounding structures. The best thing to do in that instance is to have the tree removed. If there’s only minor damage to the branches, pruning away the damaged parts is the first order of business. You may also want to consult a professional arborist to make sure the tree is healthy.