Can I prune dead branches off a white oak tree in june/july? - Ask Extension
We have a white oak tree @20' tall that we had moved from one corner of our yard to another 5 yrs ago. Professionally done. They advised us not to "d...
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Can I prune dead branches off a white oak tree in june/july? #873910
Asked June 20, 2024, 11:13 AM EDT
We have a white oak tree @20' tall that we had moved from one corner of our yard to another 5 yrs ago. Professionally done. They advised us not to "disturb it" for a few years to let it acclimate. There are several dead branches, That have been dead for a few years, no new ones. Can I trim those out this time of year?
Tuscola County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
Theoretically, it is safe to prune out dead wood IF you are completely confident that you will not be pruning into new wood, or that you will not have an accidental wound created into a vulnerable part of the tree. This is hard to guarantee, so I recommend waiting until the threat of oak wilt has passed. Late fall through the winter is safer for oak tree work. For more information on oak wilt: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart-gardening-to-prevent-oak-wilt
If you decide to go ahead and you have a wound or a cut in the tree that seems questionable, seal the wound with a pruning sealer immediately after cutting. Again, it would be safer to wait until we have passed the high risk period.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.
Ruth
Theoretically, it is safe to prune out dead wood IF you are completely confident that you will not be pruning into new wood, or that you will not have an accidental wound created into a vulnerable part of the tree. This is hard to guarantee, so I recommend waiting until the threat of oak wilt has passed. Late fall through the winter is safer for oak tree work. For more information on oak wilt: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart-gardening-to-prevent-oak-wilt
If you decide to go ahead and you have a wound or a cut in the tree that seems questionable, seal the wound with a pruning sealer immediately after cutting. Again, it would be safer to wait until we have passed the high risk period.
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.
Ruth
Thank you so much! I appreciate the expert advice, and the prompt reply!
