When Is the Best Time for Summer Tree Trimming?

Lee’s Summit homeowners, you know summer brings BBQs, kids playing in the yard, and long evenings under your shade trees. But did you know it’s also the season when your trees need a little extra love? At Master’s Tree Care Experts, we get this question all the time: “When is the best time for summer tree trimming?” Let’s break it down so you can keep your yard safe, beautiful, and thriving all season long.

Why Timing Matters: Tree Trimming in the Heat

Summer isn’t always the obvious season for pruning, but for some trees, it’s actually the ideal window. Here’s why:

Post-spring growth control — After spring, many trees put on a lot of new, sometimes overzealous growth. Summer trimming reins that in.

Disease control — Certain fungal infections are less active in dry summer weather, making it safer to prune species like oaks.

Storm prep — Summer is thunderstorm season in Missouri, so trimming away weak limbs can prevent storm damage.

However, timing depends on your tree type:

• Flowering trees (like dogwoods): Prune after blooming.
• Fruit trees: Late summer thinning can boost fruit size.
• Maples, birches, elms: Best pruned in mid-summer to reduce sap bleeding.

Learn more about proper pruning on our site: Tree Trimming Services

How Much Should You Trim in Summer?

Over-pruning in the summer can stress your trees, especially in Missouri’s heat. Follow these tips:

1. Limit removal to 10-15% of the canopy to avoid sunscald.
2. Focus on dead, damaged, or crossing branches that could rub and create wounds.
3. Shape lightly, not aggressively — major cuts are better saved for late winter.
4. Watch for signs of stress, like wilting or leaf drop.

Remember, mature trees heal slower, and excessive pruning can make them vulnerable to pests or disease.

Common Questions Homeowners Ask

Q: Can I trim oak trees in summer?
Yes! In fact, summer is the safest time to prune oaks because oak wilt, a deadly fungal disease, spreads in spring and fall.

Q: Should I trim during a drought?
Avoid it if possible — drought-stressed trees struggle to seal wounds. Focus on watering instead.

Q: Do evergreens need summer trimming?
Generally, light shaping is okay, but heavy pruning is better in late winter.

Need expert help? Our ISA Certified Arborists follow the highest standards to ensure your trees are trimmed safely and effectively.

Benefits of Professional Summer Trimming

Hiring professionals like Master’s Tree Care Experts comes with major perks:

• Precision cuts to avoid harming your tree’s health.
• Expert knowledge on species-specific timing.
• Storm-risk assessments to spot dangerous limbs.
• Clean, efficient work that leaves your yard spotless.

We use ANSI standards and decades of local experience to guide every trim.

Signs Your Tree Needs Summer Attention

Keep an eye out for:

• Dead or hanging branches.
• Cracks in major limbs.
• Branches touching power lines or your roof.
• Trees leaning after storms.

If you notice these, don’t wait! Call for an emergency assessment before a minor issue becomes a major hazard.

Ready to Give Your Trees Some Summer TLC?

Let Master’s Tree Care Experts help you keep your Lee’s Summit property beautiful, safe, and healthy. Call us today at (913) 909-9768‬ or visit masterstreecareexperts.com to schedule your summer tree trimming service.

Don’t wait for a branch to fall — get proactive care from the local experts with 20+ years of trusted experience!