How Often Should You Trim Your Trees?

There’s no denying that trees on your property come with immense benefits. Healthy trees provide privacy, add great beauty to your landscape, and can even reduce noise in an urban environment. Due to these great benefits, it is essential you properly care for your trees to ensure they last for years to come. One of the most crucial steps in proper tree maintenance is tree trimming/pruning. 

From improving a tree’s beauty to increasing their sun exposure and air circulation, there are many reasons as to why tree trimming/pruning is so important. You can read more about the importance of tree trimming in our recent blog post, “Reasons to Trim your Trees.” Without routine tree trimming, you may notice your trees do not grow properly, begin to look unhealthy or that their branches begin to pose as a threat to you, your family, and property. 

Now that you understand that tree trimming/pruning is vital, you may be wondering how often you should have your trees trimmed. Although every tree is different in size, age, and characteristics, the general rule-of-thumb is to prune your mature trees every three to five years and youthful trees every two to three years. If you are unsure of the last time your tree was pruned/trimmed, you can contact a tree expert to see when your routine tree trimming appointment should be scheduled.

How Often Should You Trim Your Trees?

The frequency of tree trimming depends on several factors, including the species, age, growth rate, and location of the tree. While there’s no universal timeline that applies to every tree, here are some general guidelines:

• Mature trees typically benefit from trimming every 3 to 5 years. This helps maintain structural integrity, remove dead or hazardous limbs, and promote healthy growth.
• Young and developing trees should be pruned more frequently, about every 2 to 3 years. Early, strategic pruning helps guide their shape and ensures they grow strong and balanced.

In Northeast Florida, especially in Jacksonville, tree growth can be faster due to the warm, humid climate and long growing season. That means trees in this region often need more regular maintenance compared to trees in cooler climates.

Additionally, trees planted near homes, fences, power lines, or driveways should be monitored closely. Fast-growing branches in tight spaces can become safety hazards or cause damage if left unchecked.

If you’re unsure when your tree was last trimmed or whether it’s due, a professional tree inspection can help you determine the best schedule based on the tree’s health and surroundings. Regular trimming not only protects your property but can also extend the life of the tree.

Not Sure When It Was Last Trimmed?

If you can’t remember the last time your tree was trimmed, here are some common signs it’s time to call a professional:

• Branches are touching or hanging over your roof
• Limbs are growing too close to power lines
• You’ve noticed dead, broken, or diseased branches
• Storms have recently passed through your area
• The tree is blocking sunlight, driveways, or paths

Sometimes, it’s not just about a calendar, it’s about what your tree is telling you.

Special Situations That Call for Extra Attention

Beyond routine trimming, these situations call for immediate action:

1. Storm Damage – Broken or hanging limbs after hurricanes or heavy winds should be removed ASAP to prevent property damage or injury.
2. Clearance Issues – Trees growing too close to structures, utility lines, or driveways need trimming before they cause real problems.
3. Tree Health Concerns – Deadwood, fungus, or sudden changes in leaf color or density may mean internal decay, pruning can help slow or prevent decline.
4. Blocked Views or Pathways – Overgrown limbs can reduce visibility near roads or block walkways, creating safety hazards.

How Professionals Help Prevent Over-Trimming

Tree trimming may sound simple, but over-pruning or cutting during the wrong season can do more harm than good.

Our certified arborists in Jacksonville know when and how to trim without stressing or weakening the tree. We always follow ISA guidelines to make proper cuts that promote healthy growth while preserving the natural shape of your tree.

Schedule Tree Trimming

If you’re due for routine maintenance, or you’re dealing with storm damage or safety concerns, Bushor’s Tree Surgeons is here to help. With over 50 years of experience in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas, we bring the right tools, training, and care to every job.

We offer:

• Precision Tree Trimming and Structural Pruning
• Safe and Professional Tree Removal Services
• Complete Stump Grinding and Surface Restoration
• Tree Health Checks, Diagnosis, and Soil Fertilization
• Supportive Tree Cabling and Bracing Solutions

Serving Jacksonville and nearby.