San Angelo homeowners ask us this question more than almost any other: when is the right time to trim trees? The answer depends on what species you have and what you’re trying to accomplish, but here’s the short version: for most trees in San Angelo, late winter is the best time for major trimming work. That said, our mild West Texas climate means you can safely trim year-round if you follow a few basic rules.
Late Winter Is the Sweet Spot
January through February is the ideal window for heavy trimming on most tree species in San Angelo. During these months, deciduous trees like pecan, cedar elm, and Chinese pistache are dormant. You can see the branch structure clearly without leaves in the way, which makes it easier to identify dead wood, crossing branches, and areas that need thinning. Cuts made during dormancy heal quickly once spring growth kicks in, and there’s less risk of attracting insects to fresh wounds.
For most homeowners, scheduling your trimming during this window gives you the best results for the least stress on the tree.
Species-Specific Timing for San Angelo Trees
Not all trees follow the same schedule. Here’s how the most common San Angelo species break down:
Pecan trees do best with late winter trimming, January through February. This is when you can see the full branch structure and remove dead wood before the spring canopy fills in. Avoid heavy trimming during the growing season when the tree is producing nuts.
Live oaks require extra caution. Oak Wilt, a deadly fungal disease, is spread by sap beetles that are most active in spring and early summer. If you need to trim a live oak, the safest window is mid-summer (July through August) or winter (December through February). If you must trim outside those windows, seal any cuts immediately with pruning paint to prevent sap beetle contact. Oak Wilt has been found in isolated cases in our area, so this is worth taking seriously.
Mesquite can be trimmed year-round in San Angelo. Mesquite is tough and tolerant of trimming in any season. If you’re managing mesquite growth on your property, schedule it whenever it’s convenient.
Cedar elm and Chinese pistache follow the standard late winter rule. Trim during dormancy for the best results.
Crape myrtles should be trimmed in late winter before new growth starts. A light trim to remove seed pods and shape the canopy is all most crape myrtles need. Avoid heavy topping, sometimes called “crape murder,” which weakens the tree and produces ugly, fast-growing suckers.
The 25% Rule
Regardless of when you trim, never remove more than 25% of a tree’s canopy in a single session. This is the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) guideline that protects the tree’s ability to produce energy through photosynthesis. Removing too much at once stresses the tree and can trigger a flush of weak, fast growth that’s prone to breakage.
If your tree needs heavy work, it’s better to spread it over two or three years, or consider structural pruning to address the most critical issues first.
When Timing Doesn’t Matter
Dead branches, broken limbs, and branches that pose a safety hazard should be removed as soon as you notice them, regardless of the season. Waiting for the “right time” to remove a dead limb hanging over your roof or driveway isn’t worth the risk.
The same applies to storm damage. After a severe weather event, get damaged branches addressed immediately. Leaving torn or partially broken limbs creates entry points for disease and increases the chance of further breakage.
The Bottom Line
For most San Angelo homeowners, the simplest approach is to schedule your tree trimming in January or February. Your trees are dormant, the structure is visible, and cuts heal fast once spring arrives. If you have live oaks, pay attention to the Oak Wilt window. And if something is dead or dangerous, don’t wait for any calendar.
Not sure what your trees need or when to schedule? We offer free assessments. Call Flynn Tree Service at (325) 374-8896 and we’ll walk your property and give you an honest recommendation.