When is the best time to prune a large branch off a cherry tree?

Question

Should I do it now, while the tree is still dormant, or wait until later this spring after it flowers, or in the summer or fall?  This branch would be about one fifth of the tree.  It is growing toward our house, and encroaching upon a smaller dogwood.  I want to remove the branch to make sure the dogwood has room to grow.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

i would say in the fall.  you cant really tell if the tree is dormant right now.  i would consult a local nursery that sells cherry trees.

moonrose777 · Answer

All fruit bearing trees should be pruned in the winter while they are dormant. During that time, virus' and insects are not out and about so the tree has time to heal over the cuts. The state conservation and extension ed. dept say to never put tar on tree wounds or cuts. Be sure to prune at an angle so water doesn't gather in the cut. I am a master gardener and this is actually on the test I had to pass. Good Luck and God Bless

Brady · Answer

If you live south of Zone 5, you will need to wait until late fall as it is already too late to prune any fruit trees except peach (which are purned just before flowering).  If you live in Zone 5 or farther north, prune now.  Don't wait.

irongrama · Answer

All pruning should be done when the tree is dormant in the winter.  NOW NOW NOW.

Fergie · Answer

I tried to get a hold of George Washington but he did not answer  allways after it blooms the branches will be better developed lessing your chances of killing it

Anonymous · Answer

Late summer or early fall. Protect the freshly exposed cut with caulk or tar.

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When is the best time to prune a large branch off a cherry tree?

6 Answers