January - February (Late Winter/Dormant Season): This is the ideal time for heavy pruning and major shaping of most deciduous trees and shrubs. Because the leaves are gone, it's easier to see the plant's structure and make precise cuts. This timing also minimizes stress on the plant and reduces the risk of disease. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs (e.g., azaleas, dogwoods), as you will cut off the buds for the upcoming season.
March - April (Early Spring): As new growth begins, we focus on light pruning and tidying up. This is the perfect time to prune summer-flowering shrubs and hedges. It's also a great window for deep root fertilization as the plants wake up and are ready to absorb nutrients for the growing season ahead.
May - June (Late Spring): Focus shifts to hedge trimming to maintain their crisp, clean look. This is also a critical time for monitoring for early signs of pests and diseases as insects and fungi become more active. Targeted treatments can be applied to protect vulnerable plants.
July - August (Summer): We perform maintenance pruning to remove any rapidly growing suckers or water sprouts. This keeps the plants looking tidy and directs energy to the main branches. Hedge trimming continues as needed. We also monitor for heat and drought stress and can recommend supplemental watering.
September - October (Early Autumn): This is another excellent time for light pruning and shaping, especially for shrubs. It's also the perfect season for a second deep root fertilization application to help the plants store energy for the winter and prepare for a healthy spring.
November (Late Autumn): As the growing season ends, we conduct a final pruning to remove any dead or damaged branches that may have occurred over the summer. This is a preventative measure to reduce the risk of winter storm damage. We also clean up any fallen debris around the base of trees and shrubs to prevent overwintering pests.
By following this schedule, we ensure your trees and shrubs receive the right care at the right time, leading to a healthier, more beautiful, and more resilient landscape for years to come.