In this Palo Alto article, George Reno from Davey's Menlo Park office gives us a guide to summer tree pruning, including what to cut, which trees should be pruned and more. 

Posted: July 13, 2026

A large tree with sprawling branches and a green canopy.Early summer often sparks the annual debate over when to prune. While tree trimming is commonly associated with winter dormancy, this season can also be an important window for thinning and shaping certain trees, depending on the species, their health and your goals.

Some trees respond well to selective cuts in early summer, while others are best left untouched until they go dormant. Knowing the right timing and approach is critical.

Cutting the wrong tree at the wrong time can cause stress, reduce flowering and leave it more vulnerable to pests and disease. Winter remains the preferred season for major structural work, but some species benefit from light trimming in late spring or early summer after new growth has emerged. It’s also one of the easiest times for homeowners to identify problem limbs, as fully leafed-out canopies make defects easier to spot.

To continue reading George's advice, click here.

For more information, contact the Menlo Park office. 

The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1880 and headquartered in Kent, Ohio, Davey has over 12,000 employees who create and deliver sustainable solutions. Davey continues to grow through expertise with the SEED Campus, its newest commitment to training, research and safety. Become part of the Davey legacy by applying today and join one of the top ten largest employee-owned companies in the U.S.

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