Tree..to cut, or not to cut?

Question

i have a tree in my yard that is about 20 feet tall...its prob 2 years old...question is, there are some branches that appear dead..they dont produce leaves, and they are a grayish color...am i supposed to cut off the dead branches???

Answer 1

You can always prune off dead, damaged and diseased wood from a tree or shrub, any time of year.  Safety is the first consideration here.  If the branches fall, will they damage structures or property?  Are there power lines anywhere near?   How large and how high are these branches?  Chain saws and ladders are very dangerous and wood is heavy.  If you need to climb, hire somebody.  If you do decide to prune the tree, a three part cut is the correct way.  Cut just outside the branch collar, the swelling where the branch attaches to a larger branch.  Don't leave stubs which the tree can't heal.    

Answer 2

If they are truly dead then the tree won't miss them.  They can be removed, but make sure to do it properly.  There's a right way to make a pruning cut, and lots more wrong ways.  Check out the link below, or do a search for "target pruning" for tips on proper pruning technique.    

Answer 3

Yes, cut off dead branches every year.

Bert