Now that the leaves are falling freely, you may be eager to get started on any tree and shrub pruning. However, according to the professionals at Oasis Landscapes & Irrigation, it's best to hold off on that until the end of autumn. For nearly 30 years, they’ve been responsible for the most beautiful residential and commercial lawns in the Columbia, MO, area, so you can trust they know what’s best.

As the team explains, the reason why you should wait until late fall for tree and shrub pruning is dormancy. Although they’re shedding leaves right now, that doesn’t mean they’ve completely stopped growing for the season. They’re not fully dormant until right before winter; once that happens, they’ll stay that way through early spring.

When trees and shrubs are dormant, it’s much easier for the landscaping professionals to clean things up. Without leaves to obstruct the view, the direction, shape, and health of the branches can be seen clearly. No second-guessing which ones are cracked, broken, or diseased.

Additionally, sap won’t be a problem during this time since growth is halted. Any cuts will have time to seal up properly, so by the time growing season comes around, they can focus their energy on the healthy parts that remain.

Another reason to wait until late fall is to avoid pests and diseases. They’re more active during the warmer months and can latch onto the wounds of a newly pruned tree or shrub, which are already quite vulnerable.

If you're in the Columbia area looking for an experienced and reliable landscaping company to do the tree and shrub pruning on your property, call Oasis Landscapes & Irrigation today at (573) 446-0858. Even though there’s still time before the end of fall, don’t wait to schedule Don’t need pruning? They provide everything from leaf removal to lawn sprinkler system installations. To learn more, visit their website.