Live Oak Pruning: Stop Topping, Prune Low Branches in Winter

Topping live oaks creates weak, bushy regrowth—not a tree. For bottom pruning (raising the canopy), wait until dormancy (after leaf drop). Winter cuts bleed less, attract fewer borers, and heal faster.

Proper Cut

Remove low limbs ¼ inch from trunk—don't leave stubs. This promotes rapid callus formation.

Define your goal: low-spreading specimen or standard shade tree. Either way, never top.