Why Prune?

• Encourage healthy structure

• Improve airflow & light penetration

• Remove dead, crossing, or diseased branches

• Control size for small Bay Area yards

Seasonal Pruning Overview

• Winter: Structural pruning for deciduous fruit trees.

• Early Spring: Light shaping before growth flush.

• Summer: Size control and thinning for fast growers.

• Fall: Minimal pruning—avoid stimulating new growth before winter.

Safe Pruning Techniques

• Always cut just above a bud or lateral branch.

• Do not remove more than 25% of the canopy at once.

• Sterilize tools between plants to prevent disease spread.

• For large limbs, use the three-cut method to prevent tearing.

When to Call a Professional

• Large branches over structures

• Trees with storm damage

• Very tall or mature trees that require climbing