When Should I Have My Trees Trimmed? A Homeowner’s Guide

Grant Cool • May 2, 2025

The Importance of Tree Trimming for Homeowners 

Tree trimming is more than just about appearances. While trimmed trees can make your yard look well-kept and beautiful, proper trimming also contributes to the health of your trees, improves the safety of your property, and even increases its value. 


For homeowners, maintaining trees is essential to prevent weaker branches from falling during high winds, promoting healthy growth, and ensuring that your landscape is always in top shape. But you may be wondering, "When is the best time to trim my trees?" 


This guide will walk you through the ideal timing for tree trimming, seasonal considerations, signs that trimming is overdue, and whether you should tackle the task yourself or call in a professional arborist. 


Understanding the Best Time for Trimming Different Types of Trees 

Different trees have different needs when it comes to pruning, and understanding your specific tree types is key to ensuring proper care. 


Deciduous Trees 

Deciduous trees like maple, oak, and birch are best trimmed during the dormant season, typically late winter or early spring before the buds emerge. Why? With minimal leaves, it’s easier to identify the structure of the tree and trim branches precisely. Plus, trimming during dormancy reduces the risk of pest infestations or diseases. 


Evergreen Trees 

Evergreens, such as spruce and pine, don't require as regular trimming as their deciduous counterparts. Most evergreen trees should only be trimmed to remove dead or damaged branches, which can be done year-round, though late winter and early spring are often preferred. 


Fruit Trees 

Fruit trees like apple, pear, and peach require pruning annually to encourage better fruit production. Late winter or early spring, while they’re dormant, is the prime time for trimming. Removing old, unproductive branches allows the tree to direct more energy toward growing larger, healthier fruit. 


Flowering Trees 

The timing for flowering trees depends on when they bloom. 

  • Trees that flower in spring (like dogwoods or cherries) should be trimmed shortly after they bloom to avoid cutting off next year’s buds. 
  • Trees that flower in summer or later (like crape myrtles) are best trimmed during late winter or early spring when dormant. 


Seasonal Considerations for Tree Trimming in Your Region 

Understanding your local climate impacts when and how you should trim your trees. Here’s how the different seasons can affect pruning decisions. 

 

Winter 

Winter is generally the best time for most tree trimming as trees are dormant, meaning pruning won’t disrupt their growth cycle. Plus, with no foliage in the way, it’s easier to see the tree’s structure for precise cuts. However, extreme cold can make branches brittle, so it’s important to avoid trimming on freezing days. 


Spring 

Spring pruning can be tricky. While it’s fine to do some light maintenance, like removing deadwood, excessive pruning might prevent trees from fully blooming. This isn’t ideal, especially for ornamental or flowering trees you want to show off. 


Summer 

Summer pruning typically focuses on maintaining shape, removing water sprouts (weak vertical shoots), and removing damaged branches after storms. However, overly aggressive summer trimming can stress trees because of the active sap flow during this time. 


Fall 

Fall is generally not recommended for tree trimming. Cutting into trees while they’re preparing for dormancy leaves them vulnerable to pests and diseases. However, if you spot dead or dangerous branches, they should be removed immediately regardless of the season. 


Signs Your Trees Need Trimming 

Regardless of the time of year, there are signs that indicate your trees are overdue for a trim. Ignoring these can lead to health issues for your trees and safety hazards for your property. 


Overgrown or Misshaped Branches 

Trees with uneven or overgrown branches can become aesthetically unappealing. Overgrowth can also block sunlight and airflow, which are vital for tree health. 


Dead, Diseased, or Damaged Branches 

One of the most obvious signs that your tree needs trimming is dead or diseased branches. These branches are weak and prone to falling, especially during storms, posing a danger to your home and family. 


Branches Near Power Lines or Roofs 

Branches too close to power lines or roofs can cause property damage or power outages during high winds or storms. Regular pruning helps you minimize these risks early on. 


Crossing or Rubbing Branches 

When branches cross or rub against each other, they can cause wounds that make trees susceptible to pests and diseases. Pruning these reduces the risk. 


Reduced Light or Airflow 

If dense branches block sunlight from reaching your lawn or other plants, it’s a sign your tree needs thinning to improve air circulation and light penetration. 


DIY Trimming vs. Hiring a Professional Arborist 

Once you’ve identified your tree’s pruning needs, the next step is deciding whether to take the DIY route or call an experienced arborist. 


When to Trim Trees Yourself 

For smaller trees or minor maintenance, trimming yourself can save money. Simple tasks like cutting small, dead branches or shaping bushes are manageable with the right tools and safety precautions. 


DIY Tree-Trimming Tips: 

  • Invest in proper tools like hand pruners or loppers for smaller branches and a pruning saw for larger ones. 
  • Wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and sturdy shoes. 
  • Make clean cuts at a slight angle and avoid leaving stubs to promote healthy healing. 


When to Hire a Professional Arborist 

For larger trees, hazardous branches, or signs of disease, it’s best to call a professional arborist. Certified arborists are trained in proper pruning techniques and use equipment designed for large-scale trimming safely and efficiently. They can also diagnose and treat potential tree health issues.

 

Pros of Hiring an Arborist 

  • Safety: Arborists are equipped for high branches and dangerous situations. 
  • Expertise: They recognize the specific needs of each tree species. 
  • Convenience: You save time and effort while ensuring the job is done correctly. 

Although hiring a professional may require an upfront investment, it can save money in the long run by improving tree health, preventing damage, and avoiding costly mistakes. 


Healthy and Beautiful Trees Start with Proper Trimming 

Tree trimming might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it’s a crucial aspect of maintaining a safe, inviting, and aesthetically pleasing home environment. Knowing the right time to prune, understanding your tree species, and addressing signs of overgrowth or damage will help your trees thrive for years to come. 


If tree trimming feels overwhelming or you need expert advice, reach out to a certified arborist in your area. Their expertise can save you from mishaps and help keep your landscape in pristine shape. 


Remember, healthy trees mean a healthier home. Start tending to your trees today, and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, thriving yard! 

High Maintenance trees

High Maintenance Trees

By Grant Cool • January 17, 2026
A beautiful, mature tree can be the heart of a landscape. It provides shade, character, and a connection to nature right outside your door. But as trees age, grow, and interact with their environment, they can transform from a cherished asset into a source of constant worry and expense. Many homeowners find themselves wondering: is this tree becoming more trouble than it’s worth? The line between a manageable tree and a high-maintenance problem isn't always clear. It’s easy to overlook gradual changes until a major storm hits or a hefty repair bill arrives. At Aurora Tree Service, our certified arborists specialize in helping you see the complete picture. We provide professional, data-driven assessments that go beyond surface appearances to evaluate a tree’s health, safety, and long-term maintenance demands, empowering you to make the best decision for your property and your budget. The Hidden Costs of a High-Maintenance Tree When we think about tree care costs, we often focus on obvious things like occasional pruning. However, a problematic tree can drain your resources in many other ways. These hidden costs can add up quickly, turning a once-loved tree into a significant financial and emotional burden. A tree that constantly drops large limbs requires frequent, costly cleanups and poses a risk to anything underneath it. A tree with an aggressive root system can crack sidewalks, foundations, and underground pipes, leading to repairs that cost thousands of dollars. Similarly, a diseased tree may require expensive, repeated chemical treatments with no guarantee of success. Ignoring these issues doesn't make them go away; it usually just makes the eventual solution more expensive. How We Identify a Problem Tree Making the decision to remove a tree can be difficult, especially if it holds sentimental value. That’s why a professional evaluation is so critical. Our arborists at Aurora Tree Service use a systematic approach to assess whether a tree’s maintenance needs have become unsustainable. We look at a specific set of factors to provide a clear, unbiased recommendation. 1. Chronic Disease or Pest Infestations Some tree diseases and pests can be managed with a single treatment. Others, however, require a relentless, expensive battle. Conditions like advanced Dutch elm disease, oak wilt, or severe infestations from insects like the emerald ash borer can weaken a tree to the point where it becomes a perpetual patient. Our experts can identify the specific ailment affecting your tree and provide a realistic prognosis. We’ll help you understand the long-term costs of treatment, the likelihood of success, and the risk of the problem spreading to other healthy trees on your property. In many cases, removing a chronically sick tree is the most responsible choice to protect your landscape and your finances. 2. Severe Structural Instability A tree that looks leafy and green from a distance can be dangerously unstable. Structural defects are one of the most serious issues we assess, as they pose a direct threat to your home, vehicles, and family. An arborist from Aurora Tree Service is trained to spot these red flags: Deep Cracks or Cavities: Large splits in the trunk or major branches are clear signs of weakness. We can assess the depth of decay to determine if the tree can still support its own weight. A Sudden or Severe Lean: If a once-upright tree is now leaning, especially if the soil around its base is heaving, it often indicates root failure. This tree is at high risk of toppling over. Included Bark and Weak Unions: When two large branches grow too closely together, they can form a weak, bark-filled union instead of a strong wood connection. These unions are prone to splitting apart during storms. If a tree has significant structural flaws, the cost of trying to save it with cables and bracing can sometimes be more than the cost of removal, without ever fully eliminating the risk. 3. Excessive and Costly Pruning Needs Some trees are simply the wrong species for their location. Fast-growing trees like silver maples or willows planted too close to a house or power lines require constant, aggressive pruning to keep them in check. This isn't just a one-time expense; it's a recurring cost every few years for the life of the tree. Our team can evaluate your tree’s growth habits in relation to its surroundings. We will help you calculate the long-term financial commitment of the required pruning schedule. Sometimes, removing a high-maintenance tree and replacing it with a more suitable, slower-growing species is the smarter financial decision over 10 or 20 years. 4. Interference with Property and Infrastructure A tree’s impact isn't limited to what happens above ground. An aggressive root system is a silent destroyer, capable of causing immense damage to your property’s essential infrastructure. We assess how a tree’s roots are interacting with your home’s foundation, driveway, sidewalks, and underground utility lines. Early signs of root damage, like a small crack in the concrete, can escalate into major structural problems. When a tree’s root system is the source of ongoing property damage, the cost-benefit analysis often tilts heavily in favor of removal. Your Professional Recommendation: Save or Remove? After a thorough evaluation of these factors, our certified arborists at Aurora Tree Service will provide you with a detailed report and a clear, honest recommendation. We don’t just tell you what to do; we explain the "why" behind our advice, presenting you with all the available options. If the tree can be saved with reasonable, cost-effective measures, we will outline a clear treatment or maintenance plan. If, however, the tree’s issues are too severe, its maintenance demands too high, or its risks too great, we will recommend removal. Our goal is to give you the expert information you need to feel confident in your decision, ensuring it aligns with your goals for safety, budget, and peace of mind. Make an Informed Decision for Your Property Living with a high-maintenance, high-risk tree is stressful. You shouldn't have to hold your breath every time the wind blows or worry about the next expensive repair bill. A professional tree assessment from Aurora Tree Service removes the guesswork and anxiety from the equation. Whether you're concerned about a leaning tree, a chronically sick oak, or one that just seems to require endless pruning, our team is here to provide the clarity you need. We'll help you determine if your tree is a sustainable asset or a liability that needs to be addressed. Tired of worrying about a problem tree? Contact Aurora Tree Service today for an expert tree evaluation and take the first step toward a safer, more manageable landscape. Meta Information Meta Title: Is Your Tree Too Costly to Keep? | Aurora Tree Service Meta Description: Learn how Aurora Tree Service helps homeowners identify high-maintenance trees. We assess disease, safety risks, and costs to help you decide when to remove a tree.
Is a tree worth keeping

To Keep or Not to Keep: Evaluating Your Tree’s Worth

By Grant Cool • January 9, 2026
A mature tree is more than just a plant in your yard. It’s a landmark, a provider of shade on hot summer days, and often, a silent witness to years of family memories. So, when a tree starts to show signs of decline, or when its branches creep a little too close to the roofline, the decision of whether to keep it or remove it can be surprisingly difficult. Is it an asset or a liability? This decision involves weighing aesthetics, safety, cost, and environmental benefits. It’s a complex calculation where an emotional attachment can easily cloud practical judgment. At Aurora Tree Service, we believe that making the right choice starts with a professional, unbiased evaluation. Our certified arborists are here to help you see the complete picture, providing the expert analysis you need to decide the future of your tree with confidence. When a Tree is an Asset Worth Preserving Before you get out the chainsaw, it’s crucial to recognize the immense value a healthy tree brings to your property. In many cases, saving a tree is not only possible but also the wisest long-term investment. An expert from Aurora Tree Service can help you identify these valuable assets. Contribution to Property Value Well-placed, healthy trees are a major selling point for any home. Studies have consistently shown that mature trees can increase a property's value by 7% to 19%. They enhance curb appeal, create a sense of establishment, and make a property more desirable. A large, beautiful oak or maple in the front yard is a landscape feature that takes decades to replace. Energy Savings and Shade Strategically located trees are nature’s air conditioners. A large deciduous tree on the south or west side of your home can block up to 90% of the intense summer sun, keeping your house cooler and significantly reducing your air conditioning bills. In the winter, the same tree loses its leaves, allowing sunlight to stream in and help warm your home. Environmental and Health Benefits Your trees are hard at work for you and the environment. They improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants while releasing oxygen. Their root systems help manage stormwater by reducing runoff and preventing soil erosion. They also provide vital food and shelter for local wildlife, from birds to pollinators. Aesthetic and Sentimental Value Sometimes, a tree's worth can't be measured in dollars. It might be a climbing tree from childhood, a gift from a loved one, or simply the beautiful centerpiece of your garden. If a tree is healthy and structurally sound, preserving this living landmark is often the right choice. Our team can help you find ways to maintain its health, such as corrective pruning or soil treatments, to ensure it remains a safe and cherished part of your landscape. When Removal Becomes the Necessary Choice As much as we love trees, there are times when removal is the only responsible option. An arborist’s job isn't just to save trees, but to identify when a tree has become an unacceptable risk. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to catastrophic damage to your home, property, or even cause serious injury. Significant Disease or Pest Infestation Some tree diseases and pest infestations can be managed, but others are terminal. Conditions like advanced Dutch elm disease, oak wilt, or severe damage from emerald ash borer can weaken a tree beyond recovery. In these cases, removal is often necessary to prevent the disease or pests from spreading to other healthy trees in your yard and the neighborhood. Structural Instability and Compromise This is one of the most critical factors. A tree might look healthy from a distance but be a ticking time bomb. Our arborists at Aurora Tree Service are trained to spot subtle but dangerous structural flaws: Deep Cracks or Splits: Large cracks in the trunk or major limbs indicate a high risk of failure. Hollow Trunk: A significant hollow, often caused by decay, can compromise the tree's entire structure. Heaving Soil or Exposed Roots: If the ground around the base of the tree is lifting, it could mean the root system is failing and the tree is at risk of toppling over. A Sudden Lean: If a tree that once stood straight is now leaning, it’s a red flag for root failure. The Wrong Tree in the Wrong Place Sometimes, a tree is perfectly healthy, but it was simply planted in a poor location. As it grows, it can become a major problem. Interference with Structures: Roots can crack foundations, driveways, and sidewalks. Branches can damage your roof, siding, and gutters. Utility Line Conflicts: A tree growing into power lines is a serious safety hazard that requires professional intervention. In some cases, repeated, aggressive pruning is not a sustainable solution, and removal is the better long-term choice. Overcrowding: When trees are planted too close together, they compete for light and resources, leading to poor health for all of them. Selective removal can allow the remaining trees to thrive. How Aurora Tree Service Helps You Decide Making this call on your own can be overwhelming. Is that crack serious? Is the lean getting worse? Our certified arborists provide a comprehensive tree risk assessment that takes the guesswork out of the equation. Our process involves: A Visual Inspection: We examine the tree from the roots to the crown, looking for signs of disease, pests, and structural defects. Site Evaluation: We assess the tree’s location, paying close attention to nearby targets like your house, power lines, or play areas. In-Depth Analysis: We might use specialized tools like a rubber mallet to sound the trunk for decay or a resistograph to measure the extent of internal rot. A Clear Recommendation: Based on our findings, we provide you with a detailed report and a clear, honest recommendation. We will tell you if the tree can be saved through pruning, cabling, or treatment, or if the risk is too high and removal is the safest course of action. Making the Right Choice for Your Property The decision to keep or remove a tree is a significant one. It impacts your property’s safety, value, and beauty. Don't leave it to chance. With a professional evaluation from Aurora Tree Service, you can be confident that you are making an informed, responsible decision that is best for your home and family. Whether your goal is to preserve a cherished landmark for another generation or to remove a dangerous liability before it’s too late, our team is here to provide the expertise you can trust. Unsure about the health or safety of a tree on your property? Contact Aurora Tree Service today for a professional tree evaluation and a free, no-obligation quote! Meta Information Meta Title: Is Your Tree Worth Keeping? A Guide to Evaluation | Aurora Meta Description: Learn when to save or remove a tree. Aurora Tree Service helps you assess tree health, safety risks, and value to make an informed decision.
A tree that is low maintenance

The Beauty of Simplicity: Choosing Low-Maintenance Trees

By Grant Cool • December 30, 2025
A beautiful, mature tree is the centerpiece of any landscape. It provides shade on a hot summer day, adds curb appeal, and creates a welcoming environment. Many homeowners dream of having a yard filled with lush, healthy trees, but they worry about the time, effort, and cost required to keep them looking their best. The good news is that you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful tree without committing to a high-maintenance relationship. Choosing the right tree from the start is the most important step in creating a landscape that works for you, not against you. A low-maintenance tree is one that is naturally suited to its environment, requiring minimal intervention to thrive. At Aurora Tree Service, we specialize in helping homeowners select the perfect low-maintenance trees that align with their property, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. We believe a tree should bring you joy, not a long list of chores. What Makes a Tree "Low-Maintenance"? The term "low-maintenance" can mean different things to different people, but in arboriculture, it generally refers to trees that possess a few key characteristics once they are established. Drought-Tolerant: They require less frequent watering after their root system is fully developed. Pest and Disease Resistant: They are naturally resilient to common local insects and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments. Minimal Pruning: They have a strong, natural structure and don't require constant shaping or corrective pruning to look good. Cleanliness: They don't drop excessive amounts of fruit, large seed pods, or weak branches that create a constant mess. By selecting a tree with these qualities, you spend less time watering, spraying, and cleaning up, and more time simply enjoying the view. The Benefits of Planting a Low-Maintenance Tree Opting for a tree that requires less attention offers more than just saving you a few hours on a weekend. The benefits have a lasting impact on your wallet, your local ecosystem, and your peace of mind. Reduced Water Consumption In many regions, water is a precious and costly resource. Drought-tolerant native trees are adapted to the local rainfall patterns and can survive, and even thrive, with minimal supplemental watering once established. This not only lowers your utility bills but also contributes to community-wide water conservation efforts. Fewer Chemical Inputs Trees that are naturally resistant to local pests and diseases don't need a constant regimen of fungicides and pesticides. This creates a healthier environment for your family, pets, and local wildlife, including essential pollinators like bees and butterflies. It reduces chemical runoff into waterways and promotes a more balanced ecosystem in your own backyard. Lower Long-Term Costs While any tree is an investment, low-maintenance trees cost less over their lifetime. You will spend less on water, chemical treatments, and frequent professional pruning. Because they are less prone to issues, you are also less likely to face expensive emergency calls for disease treatment or storm damage cleanup due to weak branch structure. Increased Property Value A healthy, mature tree is a major asset that can significantly increase your property's value. A well-chosen, low-maintenance tree will grow into a strong, beautiful specimen without demanding constant, costly intervention, making it an attractive feature for future buyers. How Aurora Tree Service Helps You Choose the Right Tree Selecting the right tree is a science. A species that thrives in one yard might struggle in a yard just a few blocks away. This is where professional guidance is invaluable. The expert arborists at Aurora Tree Service conduct a thorough assessment to ensure we recommend a tree that is set up for success from day one. 1. Site and Soil Analysis We start by evaluating your specific planting site. We analyze the soil type—is it sandy, loamy, or heavy clay? We check the soil pH and drainage, which are critical factors for root health. We also assess the amount of direct sunlight the area receives throughout the day. A tree that needs full sun will not thrive in a shady corner, and vice versa. 2. Understanding the Local Climate Our team has deep knowledge of the local climate, including average rainfall, temperature extremes, and frost dates. We recommend trees that are proven to be hardy in our specific USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. This prevents the disappointment of planting a beautiful tree only to have it suffer from winter damage or summer heat stress. 3. Considering Your Personal Preferences A tree is a long-term addition to your home, so you should love the way it looks. We listen to your goals. Are you looking for a tall shade tree for the backyard? A smaller, ornamental tree to add color near the front door? Do you prefer a certain flower color or fall foliage? We balance your aesthetic desires with the practical requirements of the site to find the perfect match. Examples of Great Low-Maintenance Trees While the best tree for you depends on our site analysis, here are a few examples of popular, resilient trees known for requiring minimal attention once established: Oak (Quercus species): Many native oak varieties are incredibly tough, drought-tolerant, and provide fantastic shade. They are also keystone species, supporting a vast amount of local wildlife. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba): Famous for their unique, fan-shaped leaves that turn a brilliant yellow in the fall, ginkgo trees are highly tolerant of urban pollution, pests, and drought. (We always recommend planting male trees, as female trees produce a messy, foul-smelling fruit). Maple (Acer species): Varieties like the Red Maple are adaptable to a range of soil types and are prized for their spectacular fall color. They have a strong structure and require little pruning. Juniper (Juniperus virginiana): Also known as Eastern Redcedar, this evergreen is extremely drought-tolerant and pest-resistant. It provides excellent year-round screening and habitat for birds. Our experts can provide a curated list of trees perfectly suited for your property's specific conditions. Plant the Right Tree, Right Now Choosing a low-maintenance tree is one of the smartest investments you can make in your property. It ensures decades of beauty and enjoyment without the burden of constant care. With the right guidance, you can find a tree that will grow strong and healthy, adding value and life to your home. The team at Aurora Tree Service is dedicated to helping you make that choice with confidence. From site analysis and selection to professional planting and long-term care advice, we are your partners in creating a beautiful, sustainable landscape. Ready to find the perfect, easy-care tree for your yard? Contact Aurora Tree Service today for an expert consultation! Meta Information Meta Title: Low-Maintenance Trees for Your Yard | Aurora Tree Service Meta Description: Discover how to choose the best low-maintenance trees. Aurora Tree Service helps you select beautiful, easy-care trees that thrive with minimal attention.