SanTan Landscape Management

The best time to trim trees in Arizona depends on the variety of tree you are trimming. In Arizona tree trimming is crucial to keep trees healthy throughout the year. If you don't get rid of branches that are weak and about to break off, you could set yourself up for having damaged property. If a storm were to come in and with high winds, weak branches can break off and cause damage to your property.

General Tips on When to Prune Trees

The following table provides optimal pruning times. Very light pruning can be done anytime if proper pruning techniques are followed. Remember to follow the tips for proper pruning and do not remove more than 25% of the live branches and leaves annually.

Tree Type

When to Prune

Native Trees Early summer (May-early June)

Non-native deciduous trees
During winter dormancy (January)

Non-native Evergreen trees March

Citrus
Don't prune except for hazards or health

Palm trees June-flower stalks can be removed at this time too

Conifers (pines, junipers, cypress) During winter dormancy (January)