The New Year has finally arrived, meaning we’ve almost survived another winter here in Texas. Spring is just around the corner, so we can all expect some of the beautiful weather that Austin is famous for.
Spring is the beginning of our trees’ annual growth cycle, meaning plenty of growth on our native species like live oak, cedar elm, and bald cypress. Spring also marks the start of oak wilt season here in Texas, which runs from February 1st through to June 30th. Due to the potentially damaging impact that oak wilt season has on our oak trees, many communities (specifically Lakeway) in Central Texas are prohibited from pruning their trees during this period!
Why You Shouldn’t Prune During Oak Wilt Season
It’s important to avoid pruning live oak during oak wilt season in Texas.
Oak wilt is a fungus that infects live oaks, preventing them from properly absorbing water and essential nutrients during their annual growth cycle. Infected trees are easy to spot – they have a wilted and generally unhealthy appearance when they should be at their strongest and healthiest.
The reason you shouldn’t prune during oak wilt season is because the disease is spread by small beetles attracted to oak sap caused by pruning. Because these beetles are active from February to June, it’s vital that you don’t prune your oak trees during this period to avoid spreading oak wilt.
The Best Time to Prune Live Oak in Texas
You want to have all your oak trees pruned by the end of January at the latest!
If you leave it any later, then you run the risk of spreading oak wilt, which could kill beautiful oaks around your landscape. So, make sure to plan ahead to ensure that you get your oak trees pruned before February and the start of oak wilt season!
Also, by pruning your trees before spring, you give them the best conditions during their annual growth season. Pruning removes dead or diseased branches, ensuring healthy and vigorous growth during the season.
Furthermore, pruning oaks before spring will benefit other plants in your yard!
For example, pruning to raise the oak canopy allows more sunlight to pass through below, making it easier to mow your lawn around the tree. Similarly, pruning branches that may obstruct other plants ensures they get ample sun for healthy growth during spring.
Plus, it’s a good idea to prune branches to keep your property safe.
For instance, if there are branches hanging over your roof, garage, or vehicle, make sure to prune them too! These limbs may break and fall during extreme weather, potentially damaging your property or even injuring someone.
By pruning your oak trees in January, you get to enjoy your yard to the fullest come spring!
Call us today at 512-743-3909 for a free estimate for our oak tree pruning service in central Texas!
