The short answer is: it depends on the type of tree and what you’re hoping to accomplish with your pruning. 

Many trees can be pruned during the winter while they’re dormant, while others respond better to pruning during the growing season, often referred to as the JAS period (July, August, and September). Choosing the right time helps a tree recover more efficiently and can reduce the risk of disease.

JAS pruning is often recommended for many fruit trees and deciduous trees because they’re still actively growing during this period.

That allows the tree to begin sealing pruning wounds right away. At the same time, growth naturally slows down, making it easier to shape the tree without triggering large amounts of vigorous new shoots.

For many gardeners, it’s a useful way to maintain balance and improve the structure of a tree over time.

Winter pruning tends to encourage new growth.

Because of this, it’s often used when establishing the framework of young trees or when rejuvenating older trees that need stronger regrowth.

When the leaves are gone, it’s also much easier to see the branch structure and identify which branches should stay and which should be removed.

As important as timing can be, the reason for pruning is often even more important.

A diseased, damaged, or broken branch may need to be removed regardless of the season. In those situations, the health and safety of the tree take priority over the calendar.

That’s why it’s helpful to avoid thinking of pruning as something that must happen on the same date every year.

Instead, start by looking at the tree itself. Ask questions such as:

Is the canopy too dense?
Are there dead or damaged branches?
Does the tree need more light and airflow?
Are branches rubbing against each other?

Once you understand the tree’s needs, it’s much easier to decide on the most appropriate time to prune. For gardeners who aren’t sure what species they’re dealing with, modern plant identification apps can be surprisingly helpful.

By taking a photo of a tree or shrub, you can often receive assistance with identification, care recommendations, and suggested pruning times. Technology will never replace experience, but it can certainly be a useful tool along the way.

Just like soil improvement, planting, and many other aspects of gardening, successful pruning is often less about following a strict rule and more about understanding the needs of the plant.

The better you understand the tree, the easier it becomes to make good pruning decisions.

Do you have a fruit tree or ornamental tree that receives a little extra care each year? Do you prefer winter pruning or summer pruning during the JAS season?

I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. Some of the best lessons come from fellow gardeners who have spent years observing, experimenting and learning from the trees growing in their own backyard.

Fredrik 🌱