Best Time of Year for Tree Removal and Trimming in Central Texas

The short answer: a tree that's dangerous should be dealt with now, whatever the month. For everything else, timing can help the tree, your yard and your schedule.

The big rule: oak wilt

If the work involves oaks, the calendar is set by oak wilt. The Texas A&M Forest Service recommends avoiding pruning or wounding oaks from February 1 through June 30, and painting every oak cut in any season. See when to trim oak trees.

Removing an oak entirely is a little different, since there's no living tree left to infect. But the cuts and any damage to neighboring oaks still matter, so plan oak work outside that window when you can.

Season by season

Winter (December–January)

• Best overall time for trimming most trees, including oaks.
• Deciduous trees have dropped their leaves, so branch structure is easy to see.
• Cooler weather makes big jobs easier.
• Male cedars are pollinating (cedar fever season). Many people remove problem cedars just before or during this time.

Late winter to early summer (February–June)

• Avoid oak pruning unless it's an emergency. Paint any oak cuts right away.
• Good time for non-oak removals and trimming.
• Spring storm season starts. Big thunderstorms and wind can bring down weak limbs. Clearing deadwood before spring is smart.

Summer (July–September)

• Oak trimming is back on the table.
• Heat and drought stress trees. Avoid heavy pruning on drought-stressed trees, since removing too much canopy in extreme heat adds stress.
• Dead limbs become obvious in summer when the rest of the tree is in full leaf.

Fall (October–November)

• Comfortable weather and outside oak wilt season, making it one of the busiest times for tree work.
• Good time to plan clearance trimming over roofs before winter weather.

When to book

• Fall and winter fill up, because it's the preferred oak season. Book early for non-urgent work.
• After major storms, everyone needs a crew at once. Non-urgent work can wait a few weeks.
• Planning a sale? Tree work before listing photos can make a big difference. See tree work before selling.

When not to wait

Don't wait for a better season if:

• a tree or big limb is dead over the house, driveway or play area,
• a tree has a fresh split, crack or worsening lean,
• limbs are resting on the roof,
• a tree is touching lines (call the utility first; see trees near power lines).

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to trim trees in Texas? For most trees, including oaks, December and January are ideal. Oaks can be trimmed any time from July through January.

Can I remove a tree in the summer in Texas? Yes. Removal can be done year-round. Avoid heavy pruning of drought-stressed trees in extreme heat.

Is it cheaper to remove trees in winter? Prices are usually similar. Winter's main advantages are better visibility of the branches and being outside oak wilt season.

When should I not trim my trees? Avoid trimming oaks February through June, and avoid heavy pruning on trees badly stressed by drought.

Plan your tree work

Use the form below with photos and tell us your timing. We'll recommend the right season for each tree and get you on the schedule. More on our tree service.