Is It Safe to Trim Trees in Summer?

The TreeMedics Team
Jul 17
2 min read

Absolutely—if it’s done properly. While most people associate tree trimming with winter or early spring, summer pruning can be both safe and beneficial when performed for the right reasons. At TreeMedics, we specialize in fine pruning and organic plant health care across Tualatin and the greater Portland metro area, and we’re here to help you understand when summer trimming makes sense.

Why Summer Tree Trimming Can Be a Smart Choice

When trees are fully leafed out, their structure and health issues are easier to assess. Here are some of the top reasons we recommend trimming in the summer months:

1. Deadwood Removal

Summer is the ideal time to spot and remove dead, dying, or hazardous branches. These limbs often become more obvious when the canopy is full.

Why it matters: Dead branches can break off without warning—especially during hot, dry weather or summer windstorms—posing a risk to people, vehicles, and structures.

2. Post-Storm Damage Cleanup

If spring storms left cracked limbs or stress fractures, it’s best to address them now. Damaged branches can compromise a tree’s health and create entry points for pests and decay.

3. Improving Airflow and Light Penetration

Strategic thinning during summer can reduce crowding in the canopy, which improves sunlight exposure and allows for better air circulation.

Benefits:

Helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases
Supports better fruit production
Encourages stronger branch structure

4. Clearing Walkways, Driveways & Structures

As trees put on new growth, branches may begin to encroach on homes, fences, or utility lines. Summer trimming can correct these issues without harming the tree’s overall vitality.

Typical clearance goals:

7–8 feet over sidewalks
12–14 feet over driveways
3–5 feet from buildings using directional pruning

🚫 When to Avoid Summer Tree Pruning

While summer trimming is often beneficial, it’s not appropriate for every situation. We recommend avoiding pruning during extreme heat or drought, as this can increase tree stress.

Also, refrain from:

Avoid trimming during heatwaves or prolonged drought unless it’s a safety concern.
Pruning susceptible species like oaks during summer (to avoid disease transmission)
Trimming newly planted or struggling trees unless absolutely necessary

Not All Tree Problems Need Pruning

Sometimes what looks like a pruning need is actually a plant health issue—like nutrient deficiencies, compacted roots, or water stress.

At TreeMedics, we specialize in organic Plant Health Care (PHC) that targets the underlying causes of tree decline. We use organic, science-based treatments to revitalize trees from the roots up, addressing soil imbalances, pest pressures, and drought stress. If a tree is struggling, we’ll help determine whether pruning, PHC, or a combination of both is the best path forward.

See the Difference for Yourself

Check out our before-and-after photos on Instagram and Facebook to see what proper summer trimming can do! Whether it’s crown raising, deadwood removal, or directional pruning, the results are often dramatic—and beneficial for both safety and aesthetics.

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