Trees across the Peninsula and South Bay thrive in California’s mild climate, but even here, timing matters when it comes to pruning. One of the best-kept secrets in tree care is that late fall through winter is the ideal season for pruning most trees. This practice, known as dormant pruning, sets trees up for healthier spring growth while minimizing risks of pests, disease, and structural problems.

At Maguire Tree Care, our certified arborists follow ISA and ANSI standards to ensure every cut benefits the tree’s health and long-term stability. Here’s why October through February is the best time to prune your Bay Area trees.

What Is Dormant Pruning?

Dormant pruning is the process of trimming and shaping trees during their rest period — after leaves have fallen in late fall and before new growth begins in early spring. With the tree’s energy stored in the roots, pruning now causes less stress while improving long-term health.

Pro Tip: Dormant pruning also makes it easier for arborists to see a tree’s structure clearly without foliage blocking visibility.

Benefits of Dormant Pruning

1. Reduced Risk of Pests and Disease

When temperatures drop, common Bay Area tree pests and fungi are less active. Pruning during dormancy reduces the risk of infections entering through fresh cuts, making it a safer season for tree health.

2. Better Visibility of Tree Structure

Without leaves, arborists can easily identify crossing branches, weak attachments, and areas of overcrowding. This allows for precise structural pruning that improves safety and shape.

3. Stronger Spring Growth

Dormant pruning channels stored energy into fewer, healthier branches. The result? Vigorous new growth in spring, improved flowering, and a more balanced canopy.

4. Improved Safety and Reduced Breakage

Pruning before winter’s frosty nights and occasional coastal storms helps remove dead or weak branches that could break and damage property. This is especially important for large species like Coast Redwoods or Monterey Cypress.

5. Minimal Stress on the Tree

Because the tree is resting, pruning during dormancy causes less stress compared to pruning during peak growing seasons.

Call Maguire Tree Care today at (650) 676-7888 to schedule your dormant season pruning with a certified arborist.

Bay Area Trees That Benefit from Dormant Pruning

Not every tree requires the same care, but many of our region’s most beloved species thrive when pruned in late fall or winter.

• Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) – Prevent overcrowding and maintain strong structure.
• Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) – Reduce weight on heavy limbs and improve storm safety.
• California Buckeye (Aesculus californica) – Enhance shape and reduce risk of dieback.
• California Bay Laurel (Umbellularia californica) – Improve airflow and canopy balance.
• Monterey Cypress (Hesperocyparis macrocarpa) – Prevent breakage and extend lifespan.
• Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) – Shape gracefully for spring display.
• Fruit trees (Apple, Pear, Plum, Citrus) – Increase sunlight penetration and encourage larger, healthier yields.

Timing Matters: October Through February

Here in the Peninsula and South Bay, winters are mild compared to much of the country — we may see frosty nights and cool, damp mornings, but not heavy snow. These conditions create the perfect dormant window for pruning:

• October–November: Trees enter dormancy and drop leaves.
• December–January: Ideal time for structural pruning and fruit tree maintenance.
• February: Finish pruning before new buds swell for spring.

Don’t wait until spring for tree service— call Maguire Tree Care at (650) 676-7888 to reserve your spot before the dormant season ends.

Risks of Skipping Dormant Pruning

Delaying pruning can lead to a range of problems:

• Increased breakage during winter storms or frosty nights.
• Overcrowded canopies that block light and airflow.
• Higher pest and disease pressure as weak branches invite infestations.
• Reduced spring vigor as energy is spread thin across too many branches.

Regular dormant-season pruning is one of the simplest ways to protect your trees and property.

Professional Pruning Services in the Bay Area

At Maguire Tree Care, we’ve been helping homeowners and property managers across the Peninsula and South Bay care for their trees since 1999. Our certified arborist crews provide:

• ISA/ANSI standard-compliant pruning and shaping.
• Risk-reduction pruning for safety around homes and businesses.
• Structural pruning for long-term tree health.
• Fruit tree pruning for improved yields.

Call us today at (650) 676-7888 to schedule a consultation and keep your trees healthy, safe, and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

Dormant pruning is more than just seasonal maintenance — it’s an investment in the health, safety, and beauty of your trees. By scheduling pruning between October and February, you ensure stronger spring growth, reduced risks, and lasting benefits for your landscape.

Whether you’re a homeowner with a single Coast Live Oak or a property manager overseeing a grove of Redwoods, Maguire Tree Care has the expertise to handle it all.

Contact Maguire Tree Care today at (650) 676-7888 to book your dormant season pruning with a certified arborist.