Trimming Oak Trees - Ask Extension
In Upper Michigan, when is the best time of year to trim the lower branches off a mature oak tree?
Knowledgebase
Trimming Oak Trees #942498
Asked August 15, 2026, 2:56 PM EDT
In Upper Michigan, when is the best time of year to trim the lower branches off a mature oak tree?
Marquette County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
After a couple killing freezes (28 degrees F or lower) or winter is the safest time to prune oaks.
The beetles that can transmit oak wilt by feeding on sap are less active or not active at that time. If it is necessary to prune before then, immediately paint the wound with latex house paint or wound sealer— beetles can find a fresh cut or wound in under 5 minutes.
Here are bulletins with details on oak wilt.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/prune_oaks_in_winter_to_avoid_oak_wilt
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/we-can-all-help-prevent-oak-wilt
After a couple killing freezes (28 degrees F or lower) or winter is the safest time to prune oaks.
The beetles that can transmit oak wilt by feeding on sap are less active or not active at that time. If it is necessary to prune before then, immediately paint the wound with latex house paint or wound sealer— beetles can find a fresh cut or wound in under 5 minutes.
Here are bulletins with details on oak wilt.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/prune_oaks_in_winter_to_avoid_oak_wilt
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/we-can-all-help-prevent-oak-wilt
