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A. The coldest time of the year is best, prior to the onset of new growth in spring.
Oaks should be pruned in the very coldest months—before the end of February—to fend off the oak wilt beetle.

Most trees don’t need pruning paint. Oaks are the exception. The pruning paint must be applied immediately to be effective! It’s better not to use paint that contains black phphalt, since that can harm the wound. An orange shellec is better if you can find it. If not, go with the black—the protection is essential.

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Arizona cypress (Cupressus arizonica) -- Our landscapes can often be a "sea of green". Plants that break up this green with alternate foliage colors are a valuable addition.

Arizona Cypress makes just such a contribution, forming an attractive specimen tree with its blue-silver foliage. It loves full sun, and will reach to over 25 feet in height, developing an attractive, peeling red bark.

It thrives on our limestone soils if provided good drainage. Shade or poorly draining soil will not work.

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• Plant now, especially trees and shrubs! Choose plants that are adapted locally. These plants are long-term investments, so it’s best to choose wisely the first time.
• Don’t fertilize new trees and shrubs at transplanting. Wait until late spring when they’ve started to grow, and then, fertilize only lightly.
• Remove fallen leaves from your grass to prevent shading over winter. Warm season grasses continue to photosynthesize, especially during our frequent warm spells.
• This is a great time to add compost around trees and shrubs. It’s also easier to add compost in perennial beds after you’ve cut them back.
  

   

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