Wis. DNR urges homeowners to prune trees in winter

State officials are urging property owners to prune their trees before the weather warms up.

Department of Natural Resources foresters say winter is the best time for pruning because trees are dormant and insects that could attack an open wound aren't active. What's more, leafless branches are easier to see and cut.

Foresters recommend removing limbs growing vertically or toward the ground. Property owners also should remove dead or diseased limbs as well as limbs that are crossing, rubbing or growing parallel to one another but never prune a branch flush to the trunk.