Basic Tree Pruning: Small Trees Occasional pruning may be required throughout the year to remove broken, dead or dying branches; or to protect pedestrian and automobile traffic. However, shade trees do not need to be pruned on a regular basis.

Pruning young, established trees
Look for and prune out the following problems:
 - Dead or dying twigs and branches
 - Eliminate undesirable branches while they are young
 - Sprouts growing near the base of the trunk
 - Crossing and/or rubbing branches
 - Narrow crotch angles