Pruning trees

[OnAFly]

I've got a few small branches (1-2 inch diameter) I'd like to take off a tree in my front yard. When is it best to do so?

[pureinsanity]

What kind of tree is it? If they are that small and only a few of them you can take them off at any time. It should not hurt them

[Steve Foss]

Dormant seasons like we're entering now are generally the best time to prune trees. However, if it's a young tree that's not firmly established yet, I like to leave it completely alone. The more leaves the better, as leaves are gathering energy and helping develop a strong root structure. So with those young trees I let all the branches produce all the leaves they can for several years before pruning.

[Powerstroke]

Depending on the age and size of the tree I'd say you can cut them in couple weeks no matter what kind of tree. If you know the tree and tell us you may be able to trim it right now.

I don't mind trimming a young tree as long as you are removing too much material. It is important to trim the tree properly to encourage proper form.

[Steve Foss]

It is important to trim the (young) tree properly to encourage proper form.

Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

[Powerstroke]

Depending on what you're saying or not saying we probably agree. I don't believe in pruning a tree into an unnatural shape. When I think of pruning younger trees, I'm talking about trying to correct structural problems that are obvious in a young tree.