WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRIM A NEWLY PLANTED TREE?
It is not necessary to trim a newly planted tree for at least the first three to five years, but should take place gradually over a period of several years. Waiting to trim gives time for the root system to grow faster and stronger. After this, trimming should be done only as necessary to enhance the natural shape and structural strength of the tree. As the trees roots develop and your tree is in an obvious state of growing, and the new growth is extending beyond the natural contour, it may be time to trim the tree. Even though you can see that some of the lower branches are too low or are out of balance, with the crown as a whole, the importance is for the development of the trunk. Lower branches are left on the trunk of the tree to manufacture food and to shade the lower bark which is often quite thin. However, if the small dead branches are trimmed, it makes your tree a healthier, happy tree. For most young trees, it is good to maintain a single dominant leader. Pruning the back of
