Dogwood Deadwood Removal: Timing, Technique, and a Pastoral Perspective

Church property chair asks about pruning dead branches on dogwood after previous trimming left 1/3 canopy dead. Wants to use pole chainsaw.

Deadwood Pruning: Anytime Is Safe

Dead branches can be removed any season. No disease risk, no bleeding concern. Cut just outside branch collar (swollen base). No wound paint needed.

Live Wood Pruning: Timing Matters

If any live shaping needed: late fall/winter (dormant) or summer (after spring growth). Avoid spring (bleeding) and fall (decay fungi sporulation).

Pole Saw Safety

• Use bypass lopper/pruner head, not chainsaw, for branches <3 inches.
• Wear hard hat, eye protection, gloves.
• Work from stable ground—no ladders with pole saws.
• Cut in sections: undercut first, then top cut to prevent bark tear.

A Lighthearted Note

As a PK (preacher's kid): focus on the sermon, not the tree out the window. But a well-tended church landscape honors the Creator.

Remove the deadwood now; the dogwood will compartmentalize and look tidy for Easter.