Pruning

• Prune the oak tree during their dormant season, in winter to early spring, to prevent spreading oak wilt. Pruning is critical to develop a strong structure and form and maintain the overall health of the tree. Pruning oak trees also helps to improve the quality of foliage and stems.
  
  

Pruning Equipment

• Use lopping shears when pruning the oak tree. Lopping shears are designed to make cuts up to 2 inches, ideal for larger oak tree branches. They have long handles that are operated using both hands to allow for precise control.
  
  

Considerations

• Trees with a main trunk like the oak tree require little pruning when the tree is young except to eliminate those branches that compete with the central leader. When pruning mature trees, seal the wound with latex to prevent insects and disease.