Spring Tree Pruning: What to Cut and What to Leave

As the weather begins to warm up in early March, many homeowners start thinking about yard maintenance—including tree pruning. But before you grab your pruning shears, it’s important to know what should (and shouldn’t) be cut this time of year. Pruning at the right time and in the right way can encourage healthy growth, reduce the risk of disease, and improve the overall structure of your trees.

A young flowering crabapple tree adorned with vibrant pink blossoms, showcasing the beauty of springtime.

Why Prune in Early Spring?

Late winter to early spring is one of the best times to prune many trees because they are still dormant, meaning there’s less stress on the tree. With no leaves in the way, it’s also easier to see a tree’s structure and identify any dead or damaged branches. Additionally, pruning before active growth starts in spring helps direct energy toward new, healthy development.

What to Prune in Early Spring

Proper training and pruning of young trees is crucial for developing a strong structure, managing growth, and preventing potential issues.

1. Dead, Diseased, or Damaged Branches

Winter storms, ice, and heavy snow may have caused branches to crack, split, or die. Removing these weak or broken limbs will prevent further damage and keep your tree healthy.

👉 What to Do:

Look for branches with no buds, peeling bark, or fungal growth—these are signs of decay.

Cut back to a healthy branch or just outside the branch collar (the swollen area at the base of the branch) to promote proper healing.

2. Crossing or Rubbing Branches

When branches cross or rub against each other, they can cause wounds that invite pests and disease.

👉 What to Do:

Remove the weaker of the two branches to allow the stronger one to thrive.

Make clean cuts at the branch collar to prevent decay.

Water sprouts growing from a Dogwood tree.

3. Water Sprouts and Suckers

Water sprouts (thin, vertical shoots growing from branches) and suckers (shoots growing from the base of the tree) drain energy and can lead to weak growth.

👉 What to Do:

Use sharp pruning shears to remove these growths close to the base.

Keep up with removal throughout the season to prevent regrowth.

What NOT to Prune in Early Spring

🚫 Spring-Flowering Trees

Spring flowering trees, like these Crabapples, can be stunted if pruned too early in the year. It's best to wait until after flowering has ended.

Trees like dogwoods, magnolias, and crabapples bloom in early spring. Pruning them now will remove flower buds and reduce their blooms. Instead, wait until after they’ve flowered to prune.

🚫 Oak Trees (in Certain Areas)

If your area has a risk of oak wilt, like in northwest Indiana, avoid pruning oak trees between March and July to prevent attracting the beetles that spread the disease.

🚫 Heavy Pruning on Mature Trees

Removing too many branches at once can stress older trees. If a mature tree needs significant pruning, consult a professional, like one of NWI ArborCare's certified arborists!

Need Help with Spring Pruning?

Pruning is essential for tree health, but doing it incorrectly can cause long-term damage. If you’re unsure where to start or have large branches that need removal, NWI ArborCare is here to help. Contact us for professional pruning services and ensure your trees are ready for a strong growing season!

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