Tree Pruning

Tree pruning involves selectively removing branches to improve a tree's health, shape, and safety around your property. Whether you're dealing with overgrown limbs blocking sunlight, dead wood that could fall during storms, or simply want to encourage better growth, proper technique matters. From seasonal timing to the right cuts, we'll help you understand the basics and connect you with local pros who can handle the job.

Related to Tree Pruning Service

Tree Pruning Service Articles and Advice
C.E. Larusso  •  May 5, 2026
6 Benefits of Pruning and Caring for Your Trees
Learn the benefits of pruning your trees and caring for them every spring, and why this process differs from harmful tree topping.
Jenna Jonaitis  •  May 5, 2026
8 Reasons Why You Should Prune Your Trees
Why do you prune trees? It’s actually one of the most important aspects of tree care, and not just because it promotes new growth.
Mariel Loveland  •  May 3, 2026
How to Prune an Apple Tree for a Bountiful Harvest
An overgrown tree won’t produce a healthy harvest. This guide will show you how to prune an apple tree to get the biggest, healthiest fruit.
Michelle Nati  •  May 3, 2026
How to Prune a Peach Tree and the Best Time to Do the Work
If you want your peach tree to provide you with fruit all summer long, you’ll need to keep up with pruning. Learn when and how to prune a peach tree.
Melissa Graham  •  May 3, 2026
Will Cutting Tree Roots Kill the Tree?
If you’re wondering if cutting tree roots will kill your tree, the short answer is it depends. Read on to figure out how to eliminate roots without affecting your tree’s health.
Alison Kasch  •  May 3, 2026
How to Kill Oak Roots But Not Trees​: 6 Tips for Dealing With Oak Tree Roots
Wondering how to kill oak roots but not trees​? Follow these 6 tips to learn the best ways to handle oak roots without harming the tree itself.
Nick P. Cellucci  •  May 3, 2026
How to Prune Maple Tree Branches: Safe Cutting Tips for Beautiful Foliage
If you want your maple tree to stay healthy and keep its beautiful foliage, you’ll need to prune it regularly. Use this guide to learn how to prune a maple tree.
Mariel Loveland  •  May 2, 2026
The Best Time to Trim and Prune Trees for a Perfectly Sculpted Lawn
The best time to trim trees depends on the time of year, type of tree, and the phase of growth. This guide will tell you everything you need to know to keep your trees healthy.
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Common Tree Pruning Service Questions

No, you should never top maple trees. Topping injures the tree and leads to the rapid growth of a weak canopy, which can be hazardous to rooftops and utility lines. Removing the crown can also leave the interior bark vulnerable to sun damage, leading to insects and disease. A topped tree can also reduce property value and permanently damage the appearance of a tree.

Generally, no, tree topping isn’t a good technique, and you should avoid using it in most cases. Tree topping may be the only good option to save a tree following severe damage after a storm, but in most other cases, it’s not the right choice. Tree topping can leave trees vulnerable to disease and further damage, and most pros will suggest against it.

If you aren’t sure what you’re doing, be very careful when cutting mature tree roots (roots larger than 2 inches). Root cutting and pruning can affect both a tree’s stability and its ability to nourish itself. Issues during root cutting can result in damage or injury. 

It’s recommended you call in a pro to help, unless it’s a very small tree and you aren’t worried about the prospect of losing the tree.

Only trim palm trees as needed, which is usually about once per year. However, don't stick to that schedule if the palm tree doesn't need it. Avoid trimming palm trees when possible. It’s best to trim palm trees only when you notice a buildup of dead fronds. That said, leave the brown fronds during the dormant season because this organic matter helps protect the tree from the cooler weather.

You’ll want to have your palm trees trimmed during the spring, ideally in May, before hurricane season sets in, which generally takes place during the late summer. Palm trees grow fastest over the summer months. You’ll also want to trim your palm trees when you notice:

  • Brown fronds 

  • Dry leaves

  • Flower pods

  • Fruit

  • Fronds overgrown in power lines

  • Frond encroaching upon your neighbor’s home or yard 

  • Visible damage from a storm