Iowa’s winter months is a prime time to prune trees, according to horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Deciduous trees should be pruned in February or March, as the lack of foliage provides a clear view of the tree. Hand shears or pruning shears are recommended for pruning branches up to three-fourths of an inch in diameter, lopping shears should be used from three-fourths to 1.5 inches and a pruning saw should be used on branches larger than 1.5 inches in diameter.

When pruning branches, the final cut should be made just beyond the branch collar and branch bark ridge. The branch bark ride is the dark, rough bark ridge separating the branch from the main branch or trunk. This helps the tree’s natural defense mechanisms and promotes callus formation.

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