Best Time to Trim Trees in Central Florida
If you own a home in Central Florida, you already know our trees grow fast and our storms hit hard. Knowing the best time to trim trees in Central Florida keeps your property safe, your trees healthy, and your yard looking great. But timing matters more than most people think.
Here is your guide to when and why you should trim the most common trees in the Lake Mary, Orlando, and greater Central Florida area.
Why the Best Time to Trim Trees Matters
Cutting branches at the wrong time of year can stress a tree, invite disease, or leave it weak right before hurricane season. Trimming at the right time encourages strong growth and helps your trees stand up to 60+ mph winds.
Central Florida’s warm climate means our trees grow almost year-round. Without regular maintenance, branches crowd together, deadwood builds up, and canopies get so thick that wind can’t pass through. That’s when trees snap or uproot during summer storms.
Spring: The Best Time to Trim Most Trees
For most tree species in Central Florida, late winter through mid-spring (February to April) is the ideal window for trimming.
- Trees are coming out of their slowest growth period, so cuts heal quickly as new growth kicks in.
- You can see the structure better before full leaf-out on deciduous trees.
- You’re ahead of hurricane season, which officially starts June 1.
Species-Specific Advice for Central Florida Trees
Live Oaks
The best time to trim live oaks is late winter through early spring. Avoid trimming from April through June when oak wilt disease spreads most easily. A certified arborist can treat cuts to reduce the risk.
Palms
You can trim palms almost any time of year, but spring is still a smart choice. Never over-trim a palm. A healthy palm should have a full, round crown, not a mohawk.
Crepe Myrtles
Trim in late winter or early spring before new buds form. A light trim to remove crossing branches, suckers, and last year’s seed heads is all they need.
Signs Your Tree Needs Trimming Now
- Dead or broken branches hanging in the canopy
- Branches touching your roof, gutters, or power lines
- A lopsided or leaning canopy
- Thick, dense growth where you can’t see through the canopy
- Crossing branches that rub against each other
- Low-hanging limbs blocking walkways or driveways
If a tree looks beyond trimming, our team provides tree removal services for trees that pose a serious risk.
Why Hire a Professional for Tree Trimming?
- Safety. Professional crews use bucket trucks, harnesses, and proper rigging.
- Tree health. Bad cuts can damage a tree for years.
- Cleanup. A professional tree trimming service handles everything.
At DeAngelos Land Services, we’re Google Guaranteed, BBB A+ rated, and carry a 4.9-star average across 164+ reviews.
Veterans and active military receive a 10% discount on all services.
Get Your Trees Storm-Ready This Spring
Now you know the best time to trim trees in Central Florida. Schedule your tree trimming now and give your property the best chance of making it through another Central Florida summer.
Ready to get a free estimate? Contact us online or call (386) 675-2303 today. We serve Lake Mary, Sanford, Orlando, Deltona, and communities across Central Florida.