The Best Time to Cut Dead Tree Branches

cutting dead branches Knowing when to remove the dead branches and limbs from your tree can be difficult. In general, dead limbs should be removed when they are noticed – but finding dead branches can be tricky. The best time to check for dead branches is after the fall leaves are gone, mulched, or buried under snow, and new spring blossoms are not yet ready to bud, December and January offer the best time to cut off the dead and make way for new life.

Removing Dead Branches

Cutting off the dead branches and limbs of your trees in the middle to end of winter is the best way to promote healthy growth (as this is when trees are dormant and you are less likely to damage them). In addition, without the leaves, it offers you the best chance to get a thorough look at every branch to give it a good, clean cut.

If a dead branch or limb is close to or touching live electrical wires, it is important to contact your electric company to have them shut off power to your property prior to removing these branches. Even if you notice the dead branch in the middle of summer, it is better to remove the dead branch than have it cause a fire or other emergency. Your best bet is to call Mr. Tree right away, as we are trained and experienced in safe tree and branch removal.

Why Pruning is Necessary

There are many homeowners that don’t understand the importance of removing dead or decaying branches. The thought may be that if it isn’t close to property or electric lines, then it is not worth the hassle. However, even if the tree or branches are not close to dangerous areas, pruning your trees is a responsible act for every homeowner. Here are a couple of reasons why:

  1. Prevents Branches from Falling. When branches die, they don’t just become bare. These branches begin to rot and decay. The longer they are left, the weight of these branches can cause them to snap or break where the rot or decay is most extensive. This can be dangerous for anyone walking near the tree, animals, or property.
  2. Promotes Healthy Growth. When a dead branch is left on a tree, nutrients, and resources are still being pushed or redirected away from healthy branches. This can lead to the tree being susceptible to disease or pests. When dead foliage is cut away from a tree, the nutrients can go to the healthy branches and leaves, making the tree stronger and more resilient.

What Causes Dead Tree Branches

Many times, dead tree branches happen because of natural causes – but in some cases, dead tree branches can signal disease, such as this disease affecting Pennsylvania Oak Trees. It is important to talk with a local arborist or tree specialist, like our team at Mr. Tree, to understand whether or not there is a bigger issue at hand.

Healthy Trees in Pennsylvania

Mr. Tree is passionate about educating homeowners about the value of pruning trees and tree removal for the purpose of promoting healthy growth among tree populations and safer homes. If you aren’t sure whether or not your tree is dying, diseased, or going through a dormant cycle, you can take a look at some of our resources online or contact us today. We would love to speak with you!