Get matched with top tree service pros in Barstow, CA

Completely topping a plum tree is a risky business. Cut too much, and you’ll kill your tree. That said, you do need to trim the top of your tree to encourage bushy growth, maintain your tree’s vase shape, and limit size. 

A plum tree's central leader (or trunk) should never extend more than 3 feet above the highest branch. When you first plant your tree, cut the central leader so it’s 2 to 3 feet tall. As it grows, cut it back 12 to 20 inches until it reaches its desired height. Never prune more than one-third of the new growth.

If the roots are still alive, the dead tree will usually try to put out new shoots. That doesn’t mean the tree will survive or that the dead parts of a tree will come back to life. If parts of the tree have died and turned gray or rotten, nothing will bring them back to life and they need to be safely removed.

Trees growing within 10 to 15 feet of your house pose serious risks, so it’s worth considering removing them. First, branches that hang over and touch your roof can promote roof damage and moss accumulation, which can lead to leaking. Second, they drop debris into your gutters, leading to clogs and overflow that can promote foundation leaks. Finally, the root systems can grow into your home’s foundation, sometimes putting enough pressure on them that the concrete wall cracks, leaving you with structural damage. As such, it’s often a good idea to remove trees growing close to your home.

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.