Hi there,
I am living in Toronto, Ontario, got a Cherry Tree and a maple at the back yard, am thinking of thinning it out, is it a good time now in November or should I wait till spring. Anything I have to pay special attention to when I cut the branches ? Your advise will be very much appreciated.
Al
This isn't a good time to be pruning trees in this area. They are beginning to "harden off" for winter and you would be stimulating new growth if you pruned them now. I'm not an arborist, but have taken a course or two in tree management. I think as a general rule deciduous trees are best pruned in the winter with the summer being a second choice.
You should be careful when taking on this project. There is an art/skill to this work which is underappreciated by the general public. My b/inlaw ruined two mature maples with his attempts at pruning them. Not only did he lose two beautiful specimens, but it cost him a lot of money to have them taken down and removed.
Peter H
Good advice, Peter, wait until winter.
Not sure about the cherry tree.
I have been told by people who should know that you only prune a Maple when it is in full leaf. The cuts need time to scab over to prevent excessive bleeding as the sap rises or falls.
Do it after the sap falls.
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