Pruning foliage during the growing season, especially during early spring, can contribute to energy deficits in the tree. A large investment is made on the part of the tree to grow foliage in the spring. The return on this investment comes as the tree stores food made by the leaves throughout the growing season. Proper dormant pruning directs this stored energy to desirable growth the following spring. In addition, the Arborist can see the tree’s structure more clearly with no foliage to obstruct his view, allowing him to detect structural weaknesses more easily and address them while pruning.

Hemlock Wooly adelgids will continue to feed throughout the winter months. Egg laying will begin in march for the spring’s first generation. Any treatments to control Hemlock Woolly Adelgid will have to wait until favorable weather returns in the spring.

For information on other common seasonal pests to look for in your yard visit the UMass Extension Landscape Message website.