🌳 Tree Trimming Calendar for Central Florida #
| Tree Type | Suggested Frequency | Best Time to Trim | Notes / Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Oak, Laurel Oak, Water Oak | Every 3–5 years | Late winter to early spring | Remove dead/crossing limbs; avoid heavy trimming during hurricane season. |
| Maple (Florida/Red Maple) | Every 3–5 years | Late winter | Thin canopy to improve airflow; remove weak branches. |
| Southern Magnolia | Every 3–4 years | Early spring | Light shaping; avoid topping. |
| Elm (Winged, American, Drake) | Every 3–4 years | Late winter | Thin rapidly growing branches to maintain structure. |
| Palms (Sabal, Queen, Sylvester, Royal, Date) | Once a year | Late winter or early spring | Remove only brown/dead fronds; never over-cut. |
| Citrus (Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Lime) | Annually | After harvest | Prune for airflow and light penetration; remove diseased branches. |
| Crepe Myrtle | Every 1–2 years | Late winter | Light shaping only; avoid “topping.” |
| Loquat, Mango, Avocado | Annually | After harvest | Remove dead/diseased branches; thin canopy for light. |
| Pines (Slash, Sand, Longleaf) | As needed | Winter | Only remove dead branches; pines rarely need structural pruning. |
🌟 Quick Reference Rules #
- Dead/diseased branches: Trim immediately.
- Branches near structures or power lines: Trim before storms.
- Young trees: Trim every 2–3 years for structure.
- Before hurricane season (May–June): Remove weak or overextended branches.
- Palms: Only remove dead fronds; never over-prune.
