by Paul Cancik, Urban Forestry Operations Assistant

With spring upon us, many residents are eagerly planning their gardens and starting to spruce up their yards. Pruning helps trees live longer, which allows them to grow taller and contribute to Denver’s urban canopy. With this in mind, Denver’s Office of the City Forester is offering helpful tips for pruning. It’s important to keep in mind that if you cannot safely prune your tree from the ground, it’s best to hire a licensed tree care professional since they use specialized equipment and have the necessary field knowledge. When you prune a tree, you are planning for the future, and with patience, you will ultimately have results that benefit generations to come.

Why should you prune your trees? 

• Pruning helps ensure that your tree develops a strong form/structure and prevents breakage in the future.
• Thinning your tree makes the crown (top) healthier by allowing more air and sunlight to pass through it.
• Pruning, much like watering, helps give your tree longevity; future generations will be able to enjoy it.
• Removing deadwood from your tree helps prevent insect infestation.
• If pruning is neglected, a tree can become susceptible to breakage, making the tree potentially dangerous.