Tree trimming and pruning in San Antonio

Common reasons to prune

• Roof and wall clearance. Branches rubbing the roof damage shingles and give pests a bridge into the attic.
• Deadwood removal. Dead limbs are the ones most likely to fall in a storm.
• Raising the canopy. Lifting low limbs over a driveway, sidewalk or lawn.
• Thinning. Selectively removing branches lets wind pass through the crown and reduces weight on long limbs.
• Structural pruning on young trees. Shaping early prevents weak forks and big cuts later.

When to prune oaks around San Antonio

Oak wilt spreads when sap beetles carry fungal spores to fresh wounds on oaks. Texas A&M Forest Service advises avoiding pruning or wounding oaks from February through June, when the risk is highest, and painting every fresh oak wound immediately, any time of year. Many San Antonio homeowners schedule oak work for the hottest part of summer or for winter. See oak wilt.

Most other trees, including cedar elm and pecan, can be pruned much of the year. Late winter, before spring growth, is a common choice.

What to avoid

• Topping. Cutting the top off a tree causes weak, fast regrowth and decay. A good tree service won't recommend it.
• Removing too much at once. Taking more than about a quarter of the canopy in one season stresses most trees.
• Trimming near power lines yourself. Contact CPS Energy about branches touching electric lines.

What to ask for in a quote

Ask which branches will be removed and why, whether cuts will be made at the branch collar, whether oak wounds will be painted, and whether cleanup is included.