When’s the Best Time to Trim Live Oaks in Central Texas?

The sprawling oak trees on so many central Texas properties really make the area stand out. Many of these trees have lived for up to 300 years and have the potential to double that lifespan. Similar to several other living things, oak trees rely on people for the care and nourishment they need to thrive.

What’s the Difference Between Pruning and Trimming?

Pruning involves removing dead limbs, diseased branches, and other problems that affect the tree’s health. The best time of the year for this is in late winter or early fall. This prepares the tree to grow healthy limbs once the blooming season begins.

Trimming means cutting off loose or overgrown branches. This is necessary to protect people and the surrounding property against the danger of falling limbs. Similar to pruning, trimming can also affect the health of the tree by removing an infection or disease before it has time to spread. 

As a general rule, you should trim your oak trees every fall or winter. This will give the tree time to heal before the growing season returns.

Know the Reasons for Trimming Your Oaks

Once you start the practice of trimming your trees, you’ll discover a few benefits. Take a look at these advantages of keeping up with oak tree trimming.

• Tree Health: Damaged limbs serve as entry points for pests, diseases, and illnesses
• Safety: Shorter limbs have a smaller risk of snapping and falling on a home or person
• Curb Appeal: Your home will look more maintained
• Cool Factor: Your neighbors will see you as the tree authority and come to you with their tree care questions

You’ll experience many more benefits once you begin a regular tree care routine.

Avoid Trimming and Pruning at the Wrong Time

Waiting too long for these tree care tasks can have disastrous results. For instance, trimming or pruning the tree in spring raises the risk of oak wilt. This tree disease gets passed to trees by insects. It has destroyed thousands of live oaks throughout Texas.

If you haven’t trimmed or pruned your oak trees by February, wait until after June. This brings the end of the blooming season. Trimming or pruning an oak during blooming releases a strong, aromatic odor that attracts beetles from miles around. Those beetles will infect your trees with dangerous diseases.

Safety Tips for DIY Tree Trimmers

If you decide to trim your oak trees without expert help, make sure you have the right personal protective equipment and tools. Follow this guide to work safely as you take care of your oak trees.

Personal Protective Equipment

Think about the minimum equipment you’ll need to avoid injuries. This should include safety glasses, hearing protection, a helmet, and work gloves. Sturdy overalls can protect against scrapes and bruises.

Find a Spotter

Never trim or prune a tree on your own. You might lose your footing or get startled by a hidden hornet’s nest or a loose branch. Having someone nearby to call for help is essential.

Work With the Proper Equipment

Use the right tools for the type of trimming or pruning you’re planning. For smaller branches, pruning shears or pole pruners will work. For bigger limbs, use ladders, saws, and chainsaws. Always clean your cutting tools before and after each job to reduce the risk of spreading an infection.

Use the Three-Cut Method

Make an undercut to keep the bark from shredding. Next, make a top cut to remove the branch. A third cut just above the branch collar will promote proper healing. Finish by painting a layer of lac balmsam over the cut for protection.

Consistency Is the Key to Oak Tree Care

The most important part of keeping your oak trees looking lively and majestic is to stick to a diligent schedule. Set up a schedule for tree trimming, watering, and other tasks. If you notice a change in the health or appearance of your trees, contact a professional right away. You might need experienced help to restore your oak tree’s beauty and strength.

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Grass Works can prune, shape, and clip bushes and hedges to keep your entire home looking good! We will remove fallen trees and clean your yard of debris. Contact us today to learn more!