The Best Time to Prune Crab Apple Trees
7117745054 • February 26, 2025
When to Prune Crab Apple Trees
The best time to prune crab apple trees is now! The best time to prune crab apple trees is during the winter, when it’s cold enough to prevent the spread of Fireblight- a destructive bacterial disease that can cause decay and death to trees and shrubs in the Rosaceae family.
Symptoms of Fireblight include dark, sunken areas appearing on the bark of the tree, young shoots will wither up similar to what we call, a “shepherd’s crook”. If your tree bears fruit, that fruit may end up end up shriveled and black.
While there is no true cure, trimming out the infected areas can make a huge difference in the overall health of the tree. If infection is bad enough, our arborists can sometimes recommend a round of Cambistat
to help slow the spread.
Cambistat is a growth regulator that provides long-lasting reduction in tree growth. If the tree isn’t growing, the bacteria isn’t spreading.
Regardless of whether your crab apple tree has Fireblight or not, it’s recommended to prune crab apple trees before the beginning of April, which means we only have a few weeks left to perform this tree service.
However, with how quickly it’s warming up, you may start to see your crab apple trees blooming sooner rather than later, which means it’s better to prune sooner rather than later.
Give ArborScape a call at (303) 806-8733 for a free estimate and to get on our schedule to prune your crab apple trees!
*For any other tree trimming or removal services, ask us about scheduling before March 31st to get a 10% discount!

Studies are showing that Colorado trees are being ravaged by insects , but ArborScape’s tree spraying services are here to keep your trees healthy throughout the seasons. It’s been noted that the fluctuating weather seems to be the main cause as to why our trees have become so susceptible to a variety of pests that can cause insurmountable disease and other damage to our trees here. Each tree we see here in Colorado has different needs, whether it’s a native or non-native species. But what every tree needs is stability, even with season changes. Without that stable weather a tree has grown accustomed to, it can respond in a similar way that we get sick; with various symptoms that open our immune system to other attacks. However, there are actions to take that help prevent these attacks or at least help mitigate the symptoms until we’re healed. And we can do the same with trees. Most of the time, tree spraying is used once insects have already attacked your trees. This is typically because you don’t notice symptoms until the infestation has begun. But tree spraying can also be used as a preventative treatment to give your trees the extra boost they need to protect themselves from an array of issues. While there are some tips and tricks to do on your own to protect your trees, such as properly watering and mulching to maintain health. But sometimes it’s best to call in the professionals. Here at ArborScape, our arborists have the expertise, and knowledge of the terrain, to both treat and prevent the stress that pests can bring about. Learn more about our pest control treatments below.
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