
Why you should consider pruning your tree in Summer
As summer arrives in Preston, many homeowners turn their attention to their gardens. While you’re enjoying the longer evenings and warmer weather, it’s also the perfect time to give your trees some care and attention — and summer pruning is one of the most effective ways to do just that.
At LES Tree Services, we’re often asked: “Is summer a good time to prune trees?”
The answer is a confident yes, and here’s why.
During summer, trees are in their active growth phase. This means their natural healing processes are at their peak, allowing pruning cuts to seal quickly and reduce the risk of disease or decay entering the tree.
Pruning in winter can sometimes leave trees vulnerable to infection for longer. For species like birch, maple, cherry, and sycamore, summer pruning can actually reduce sap loss and encourage healthy, balanced growth.
🌿 It can be Easier to Identify Problems with Full Foliage
In summer, trees are fully leafed, which makes it easier to spot dead or diseased branches, identify uneven growth, and see which limbs are causing obstruction or shading.
From our experience working across Preston, Penwortham, Chorley and surrounding areas, the most common reasons people call us in summer include:
- Overhanging limbs causing hazards near homes or gardens
- Blocked sunlight to lawns, patios or solar panels
- Storm-damaged branches needing removal before they fall
- Obstructed views or trees growing too close to properties
We can assess and recommend tailored pruning solutions that keep your trees healthy and your outdoor space looking its best.
Preventing Insects and Fungal Diseases
Thick, unpruned canopies can trap moisture and block air circulation, creating ideal conditions for fungal diseases and pests like aphids, wasps, or even wood-boring beetles.
Summer pruning helps reduce the risk of infestation by thinning dense areas, improving airflow and allowing more sunlight to penetrate the canopy. This is especially important for ornamental trees and fruit-bearing varieties, which benefit from increased light exposure.
Improve Tree Shape and Garden Appearance
Over time, trees can grow out of shape, develop crossing branches, or become too top-heavy. Pruning helps restore balance, structure, and appearance, ensuring the tree continues to grow in a healthy, controlled way.
We often carry out crown lifting, thinning, and selective limb removal in summer to improve access, light, and aesthetics — especially for properties with large oak, ash, or sycamore trees.
One recent job in Fulwood involved removing a large limb from an overhanging oak tree directly above a client’s garden. Not only did it improve light and reduce risk, it also enhanced the look and value of the property.
What Types of Tree Pruning Do We Offer?
As experienced local tree surgeons, we provide a full range of pruning services, including:
✅ Crown thinning and reduction
✅ Deadwood removal
✅ Formative pruning for young trees
✅ Limb removal and canopy lifting
✅ Hedge trimming and shrub shaping
We tailor our approach to the tree species, condition, and location — and we remove all waste, leaving your garden clean and tidy.
Whether you need a quick limb removal or a full garden prune, we’ll give you expert advice and a free no obligation quote.
Ready for Summer Tree Pruning?
If your trees are blocking light, causing concern, or just need a professional trim – now’s the perfect time to act.
Contact us today to book a site inspection or request a free quote.
Call: 01772 885100
Visit: lestreeservices.com
Local tree care experts covering Preston & Lancashire
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