Best Time for Pruning Trees in Denver and Colorado Springs

Tree pruning isn’t only about appearance—it plays a key role in keeping trees strong, healthy, and safe. Whether you’re maintaining a backyard favorite or a towering street tree, knowing when to prune makes all the difference. But timing isn’t simply about the calendar.

Denver and Colorado Springs have a unique climate, with unpredictable winters and strong summer storms, making smart pruning even more important.

If you’re wondering when to schedule tree trimming, how to protect your trees from weather damage, or why hiring a screened professional matters, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense—no guesswork, straightforward advice for Colorado homeowners.

Why Proper Tree Pruning Matters

Pruning isn’t about cutting back branches—it’s about helping trees grow strong and preventing future problems. Here’s why it’s worth doing right:

Encourages healthy growth – Removing weak, damaged, or crossing limbs gives trees a better shape and structure, helping them grow properly.
Reduces storm damage – In Colorado, high winds and heavy snow can take down weak limbs. Pruning helps trees stand strong in tough weather.
Prevents disease and pests – Dead branches attract insects and fungi. Pruning trees regularly keeps them healthier for the long haul.
Keeps your property safe – Overgrown limbs near power lines or structures can become dangerous. A well-trimmed tree is a safe tree.
Improves light penetration – Pruning opens up the canopy, letting sunlight reach lower branches, shrubs, and grass beneath.

The Best Time of Year to Prune Trees in Denver and Colorado Springs

Timing matters when it comes to pruning. Colorado’s changing seasons affect how trees heal, grow, and respond to cuts. Here’s what you need to know about seasonal pruning and when to schedule your tree care.

Late Winter (Best Time for Most Trees) – February to Early March

This is the prime time for most pruning because trees are still dormant. Without leaves in the way, it’s easier to see the structure and remove problem areas. Late winter pruning encourages strong spring growth while minimizing stress.

Great for deciduous trees like oaks, maples, and elms.
Helps prevent disease spread, especially oak wilt in oak trees.
Encourages strong structure for young and mature trees.

Early Spring (Okay for Some Trees) – March to May

Some trees, especially those that bloom later in the season, respond well to early spring pruning. However, heavy pruning should be avoided since trees are already using energy for new growth.

Best for trees that flower in summer, like crape myrtles.
Avoid pruning spring bloomers until after they flower.

Summer (Selective Pruning Only) – June to August

While summer isn’t the best time for pruning, a little selective removal is fine. If a tree has diseased, dead, or hazardous limbs, trimming in the summer is better than leaving them in place.

Helps control fast-growing lateral branches.
Ideal for thinning out young trees to develop a strong shape.

Late Fall (Worst Time for Pruning) – September to October

Avoid pruning trees in late fall, especially large trees. Cutting too much before winter can stress trees when they need energy to prepare for colder months.

The only exception? Removing dangerous tree branches that pose a risk.

Signs Your Tree Needs Immediate Pruning

Sometimes, you can’t wait for the "best season"—certain problems need attention right away. If you spot any of these issues, it’s time to call a professional:

Dead or broken limbs – If a limb looks dry, brittle, or hollow, it’s probably dead. Leaving it can attract pests or cause unexpected breakage.
Branches too close to power lines – This is a major safety hazard. If limbs are near power lines, don’t attempt to trim them yourself—hire a pro.
Large branches hanging over your home – Heavy limbs over rooftops or driveways can cause serious damage during storms.
Overcrowding – If your tree is too dense and blocking sunlight, it may need thinning for better air movement and overall health.
Visible disease or fungus – White spots, peeling bark, or unusual growths can indicate a problem that pruning might help manage.

How to Choose a Tree Trimming and Pruning Service in Denver & Colorado Springs

Finding the right tree care professional isn’t about hiring someone with a chainsaw. Trees are living things that require proper pruning to stay strong and healthy. A poorly pruned tree can struggle with weak limbs, disease, or even stunted growth. That’s why hiring a qualified expert is so important.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a tree trimming service in Denver and Colorado Springs.

Choose ISA-Certified Arborists

An ISA-certified arborist does more than trim trees—they’re trained experts in tree biology and know how to promote healthy growth using the right techniques. They know how to make precise cuts without damaging the branch collar and can identify which secondary branches need to be removed for the tree’s long-term health.

A good arborist won’t cut entire branches at random. They follow science-backed techniques to encourage stronger, more resilient trees.

Look for Experience and Local Knowledge

Colorado’s dry climate, sudden temperature drops, and intense storms mean that tree care requires local expertise. An experienced tree service in Denver or Colorado Springs understands:

The best times to prune specific tree species.
How to prevent issues like oak wilt and insect infestations.
Techniques to protect trees from heavy snow and strong winds.

Check for Licensing, Insurance, and Safety Standards

Tree trimming is dangerous work, and any reputable company should be fully insured to protect you and their workers. A good tree service will have:

General liability insurance.
Workers' compensation coverage.
A strong safety record.

They should also follow ANSI A300 pruning standards, which set best practices for safe, effective pruning.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Tree Service

Before hiring a tree care professional, take a moment to ask a few key questions. A trustworthy company should have no problem answering these.

Are you ISA-certified? (This ensures they follow industry best practices.)
Do you carry insurance? (A must-have for protecting both workers and homeowners.)
Do you have local references? (Hearing from past customers can confirm their reputation.)
What’s your process for pruning wounds? (They should mention proper sealing and cutting techniques.)
Do you follow ANSI A300 standards? (This guarantees they use the right pruning methods.)

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Not every tree company follows best practices. Here are a few warning signs that a service might not be the best choice:

They top trees – Cutting off the tops of trees weakens them and invites disease.
They don’t carry insurance – If they can’t provide proof, it’s a major red flag.
They use vague pricing – Watch out for companies that won’t provide a clear estimate.
They pressure you into unnecessary work – A reputable service will never use scare tactics or upsell beyond what’s needed.

Hiring the right tree service ensures your trees stay healthy and beautiful for years to come. Choose wisely, and your trees will thank you!

Looking for Professional Tree Pruning in Denver or Colorado Springs?

Finding the right tree care service can feel overwhelming. You want someone who understands tree biology, follows best practices, and knows how to keep your trees properly pruned without causing long-term damage.

But let’s be honest—checking credentials, verifying insurance, and making sure they follow industry standards takes time. And even after all that, how do you really know they’ll do a good job?

That’s where we come in. At Team Dave Logan, we’ve already done the hard work for you. Our screened tree services contractors meet strict qualifications, so you don’t have to second-guess your decision. Every company in our network is vetted for experience, licensing, and professionalism, ensuring your trees get the expert care they deserve.

Whether you need seasonal pruning, storm damage cleanup, or specialized care for mature trees, we connect you with top-rated professionals in Denver and Colorado Springs. Zero hassle, zero risk—only reliable service from trusted local professionals.

Need tree trimming from a screened pro? Find a trusted expert today!

FAQs

How much does tree pruning cost in Denver and Colorado Springs?

Tree pruning costs vary widely based on factors like tree size, condition, accessibility, and the extent of work needed. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to reach out to a screened tree services contractor for a personalized quote. It’s always a good idea to compare multiple bids to find the best service for your needs.

When is the best time to prune trees in Colorado?

Late winter to early spring is best for most trees, but some flowering species should be pruned after blooming. A certified arborist can recommend the ideal timing.