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When to Prune Maples and Pines in West Virginia

A homeowner in the northern panhandle of West Virginia needs to prune large maples (6-inch branches) and pines (3-inch branches) and wants to avoid excessive sap bleeding.

Maples: Prune After Full Leaf Expansion

Maples bleed heavily if pruned in late winter/early spring. To minimize bleeding, prune in late spring or early summer once leaves are fully expanded. Never remove more than ¼ of live foliage in one season.

Pines: Prune in Fall

Pines can be pruned anytime, but fall is best to avoid attracting bark beetles to fresh wounds in spring/summer.

Proper Large-Branch Removal (Three-Cut Method)

Undercut 18 inches from trunk, ⅓–½ through.
Top-cut 1 inch farther out until branch falls.
Final cut just outside the branch collar (swollen area at base). Do not leave a stub; do not cut into the collar.

No Wound Dressings

Paint or sealants slow healing. Clean cuts seal naturally.

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