Should You Cut Dead Branches?

Should You Cut Dead Branches off Your Trees? 

What to Do With Dead Branches on Your Trees

Trees have the natural ability to live for hundreds of years. In fact, the oldest living tree in the world is approximately 4,853 years old and is located in Eastern California. While trees have an innate ability to survive life cycles through harsh weather conditions, their branches can become brittle and eventually die. This doesn't necessarily mean the tree is dying or dead, especially if it's a young tree with lush foliage. Dead branches on trees are common and can be part of their natural growth process.

Like a snake shedding its skin, trees periodically release their old limbs to make room for new growth. This process allows your trees to thrive and adapt to their environment. However, that doesn't mean you have to keep the dead branches. Today, our local Edmonton arborists will provide you with a set of guidelines to help you spot a dead branch, how to prune deadwood, when to cut dead branches off trees, and why cutting off dead branches helps make sure your tree is healthy.

At Trusty Tree Services, we want to ensure that your precious trees are well taken care of. To maintain the health of your trees, being equipped with the knowledge of what to do with dead branches will keep your trees healthy and beautiful for the years to come. So, should you cut the dead branches from your trees? Keep reading to learn more. 

How to Spot a Dead or Dying Tree Branch

Though it might seem obvious if a tree branch is dead or dying, dead branches can be tough to spot. Perhaps you picture a darkened branch amongst the vibrancy of a full canopy and a strong tree trunk. Or maybe you picture a dead branch as thin as a twig on a sapling. The truth is that dead branches on trees and shrubs can sometimes blend in seamlessly with healthy growth, making it hard to tell if a branch on the tree is dead or dying. 

Furthermore, winter is an especially difficult season to determine if the branch is dead or dormant. Even during the growing season, a tree branch could appear dead, but it's alive and well. Nevertheless, let's take a look at common signs that indicate that there are dead branches on your trees:

  • Fungal growth and decay on a tree's trunk or branches
  • Pest damage under the tree trunk or branch
  • Falling branches, leaves, and twigs
  • Dry, shrivelled buds on the branch
  • The inner bark of the limbs or branches is dry and brittle

It's important to note that if multiple dead branches make up the tree, you shouldn't climb or rest near it. The branches are brittle and break easily when interfered with. If you're unsure if the entire tree is alive or dead, call upon a local arborist to come and inspect it for you. The arborist will be able to tell you if the tree needs to be removed or if it can be treated to promote healthy growth. 

Why Do Tree Branches Die?

Now that you've learned how to identify dead branches on your trees, you may be wondering why they've died in the first place. While it is true that limbs die due to natural growth patterns, tree branches can die in Alberta for a variety of reasons. Let's take a look at six of those common reasons:

  1. Extreme weather conditions: Rapid drops in temperature are nothing new for Albertans and, for the most part, nothing new for the native trees. However, extreme temperature drops can cause the water inside the branches to freeze, making them brittle and prone to breaking. Then, sudden warm spells followed by freezing can also stress trees through frost heaving. 
  2. Drought stress: As cold as it is in January, Albertan summers can be very dry, causing your lawn to turn brown and your trees to encounter drought stress, causing dead branches on your trees. 
  3. Disease: There are several diseases that can affect Alberta trees and, therefore, lead to dead tree branches. There is the Armillaria Root Rot, a fungal disease that can induce sapwood decay and kill trees or the branches of trees. Additionally, Fireblight is a bacterial disease that can cause branch dieback, particularly in fruit trees.  
  4. Salt injury: Road salt spray can cause needles to brown from the tips downward, leading to dead branches on evergreens. 
  5. Nutrient deficiencies: If your trees lack iron chlorosis and micronutrients, they can cause needles to brown prematurely and branch dieback. 
  6. Improper pruning techniques: Tree trimming live branches during spring or summer can induce quite a lot of stress on your trees and even make room for disease and pests to infiltrate the tree. 

Pruning Dead Branches From Trees

So, to answer the question, "Should I cut dead branches off my tree?" the short answer is yes. To make way for new growth and to leave room for living branches to thrive, it's important to prune dead branches. Furthermore, pruning trees with dead branches is a safety precaution many property owners should be aware of. Falling branches can wreck your vehicle but also harm your own physical well-being. If it's time to prune your trees, but you don't have the skills or tools to do so, you can always count on a local arborist to take care of this aspect of tree care. 

The best time for removing dead branches from a tree is in the dormant seasons. However, you can cut diseased branches from the tree's canopy at any time. Let's take a look at proper pruning techniques that will still maintain tree health and encourage new growth:

  • Inspect branches regularly: Identify the broken branch or twig that needs to be removed. 
  • Make a clean cut: Cut just outside the branch's collar so it can heal properly. 
  • Reach out for professional help: Hire an arborist if you need expert advice or assistance with tree pruning

Maintain Your Tree's Health With Trusty Tree Services

Removing dead branches from your trees is crucial to caring for them. To maintain healthy branches and, therefore, healthy trees, it's important to regularly inspect your trees for any signs of decay or damage. At Trusty Tree Services, we're as concerned about the well-being of your trees as you are, which is why we offer a range of services dedicated to ensuring your trees thrive year-round. 

If you have any questions regarding the health of your trees, we encourage you to contact us today or give us a call at 780-860-5500.


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Benny Wong
Benny Wong

Left us a 5 star review

Benny Wong
January 15, 2026

Colton and Jared both arrived ahead of schedule and did an excellent job trimming our maple and Plum trees. They also help trim our neighbors tree with permission so both trees have space to grow. Since the City of Edmonton stop picking up Christmas tree's they help shred mines so i don't have to make a run to the Eco centre.

Kelly Bergquist
December 25, 2025

They clear our whole complex at Ravine Estates and do such an amazing job. Thank you so much for working on Christmas eve!!!!

Dan Tencer
December 10, 2025

Had a crew out on a very chilly day to do a huge job of removing 8 trees from my yard and pruning a couple others. Guys were upbeat, respectful and did awesome work. Everyone I've told about the job is pleasantly surprised at how reasonable the cost was for the work. Highly recommended. Will be using them again in the spring for more work.

Tammy Horne
December 9, 2025

Jared, Steve, and Colton did some major pruning in my large backyard in late November. This involved fruit trees, evergreens, and multiple large and small trees along my fence line. This team was courteous and professional throughout the process. They worked efficiently and the cost was readable for the work. They asked me to come out and check their work before they left. I was impressed - especially having experienced some inconsistent and less responsive service from a few other companies over the years. I will definitely have Trusty Tree back for future work!

Bev @proclad.ca
December 1, 2025

Staff arrived on time, were professional and did an awesome job. We will use them again and definitely recommend.

Doug “Foxglove” M
November 24, 2025

The crew from Trusty Tree recently completed some work at our house. They shaped some of our out of control trees and removed 2 trees that were diseased or dying. They were prompt, polite and very knowledgeable. They double checked the required work before starting and answered our questions as they came up. They did a great job and ensured we were satisfied before they left. I would recommend them or have them back should we require any further trimming or removal.

Colleen Nichol
November 10, 2025

I called Trusty Tree Service to help with a willow tree limb that had fallen landing on our backyard fence. Keegan came out the same day to assess. Jared, Cayden and Keegan came early the next morning and dealt with the fallen branch. The tree was deemed compromised which resulted in the need to cut down the rest of the tree. Mathew came today and ground up the stump. Both crews were terrific. Jared, Cayden and Keegan were efficient and careful taking the tree down. It was in a fairly restrictive location. All the debris was cleaned up and hauled away. Mathew also did a great job working in a tight area to grind up the stump. I highly recommend Trusty Tree Services. They responded quickly and did an excellent job.

Jessy F
October 26, 2025

We had a great experience dealing with Trusty Tree Services! Colton and Jared arrived exactly as scheduled, were very friendly and knowledgeable and did a fantastic job! We will definitely be using this company again in the future!

Caleb Newman
October 25, 2025

Mike and Carter came by on time and did a fantastic job! nice and efficient service would recommend! they went above and beyond. 110% satisfied.

Bryce
October 24, 2025

Great service. Everything was to what I expected, thanks.

Sheila Blair
October 24, 2025

I was very pleased with the job done. All the trees were trimmed as needed and the two young fellows were courteous and professional. Many thanks!

Leonardo Panciroli
October 22, 2025

We had our big trees trimmed and also 2 trees removed because of encroachment issues. Sarah was our initial contact and she was wonderfully pleasant and very approachable. Her knowledge and guidance were a contributing factor in our choice. A few days later we had Mat Luchkow remove the remaining 2 tree stumps and we were really happy with the results. He is friendly, professional and very conscious of not causing any damage with the heavy duty equipment that is required. His maneuvering between bushes, gates and decking required skill so 5 STARS to him and thank you.

Julie Nieuwhof
October 22, 2025
Doug Morrison
October 20, 2025

I was very pleased with the service that was provided. Kolton took his time to explain what and why things needed to be done. Mike and Brandon did an excellent job of doing the work, and leaving the worksite clean. I would recommend this company to anyone !

Michelle Bohning
October 15, 2025
Linda Francescutti
October 10, 2025

Matt did an excellent job. Quick and efficient!!we would definitely use Trusty tree services again.

Dwayne Michalyk
October 10, 2025

I had this crew to trim my front lilac bush…mountain ash …mugo pine tree. While the boys were here I got to snip off 4 branches from one pine trees . The crew did a great job and the lead hand answered a few of my questions and I got to pick his knowledge what would look good aesthetically . They arrived at my home at 8:30 am and 11:00 they done . They cleaned up the mess they made and chipped all the branches . I had 3 companies to give me estimates and they were in the middle. Plus I read reviews on google about this company. I would hire them again ….Thank you trusty tree.

Kaitlynn Braulio
October 7, 2025

Mike and his crew came over to prune 3 trees. They arrived early and finished the job in just a few hours. Mike checked in with us a few times during the process to show progress, discuss what was done and some future considerations, while keeping in mind the health of the trees. The finished product was exactly what we wanted. All of the trees were pruned to the property line very nicely and clean up was done throughout. Would highly recommend Trusty Trees for pruning trees, especially if you get Mike and his crew.

Paul Tetreau
October 4, 2025

We had Trusty Tree Services come to our condo complex today to do the fall trimming/pruning of the numerous shrubs in our complex. Brandon & Mitch did an excellent job of trimming and were very meticulous in cleaning up the debris left behind. They went over and above in trimming some of the larger lilac shrubs (trees actually!) to make them look much more "cared for". Thanks guys!

Cheryl Nekolaichuk
September 30, 2025

Mike and Mitch were very friendly and their work was very professional. Our trees and shrubs look great!

Lorri Berg
September 29, 2025

Trimmed a big spruce tree along our driveway today did an fantastic job both guys were both polite and courtesy swept and cleaned up everything after they done would definitely recommend this company 😀

Dallas Reid
September 26, 2025

I had Trusty Tree trim and clean up my two giant spruce trees in the front and I am so happy with the job they did. I was kinda anxious at first because I love the trees and cutting their limbs off is permanent but I couldn't be happier with the outcome! Sarah, Jared and Kayden were all awesome and knowledgeable and they asked the right questions about exactly what I wanted with the trees. As the experts, they made honest recommendations and didn't try to upsell me on things I didn't need which I appreciated. Super happy with the job and I would recommend them to anyone who needs tree services!

Keltie Watson
September 25, 2025

Brandon and Matt did an amazing job of taking down my tree in my front yard. They were incredibly friendly and they were very quick to take down the tree and clean up the mess. I wholeheartedly recommend this company. On September 24, Matt did a superb job in removing and grinding down the remaining stump and roots.

Ken Mackenzie
September 18, 2025

Satisfied with job Gerot & Grayson work with removal of dead branches of my weeping birch.

Chad Russell
September 13, 2025

the guys were here on time.....actually a little early which was great. In no time the trees were taken down and put thru the chopper and the yard was raked and cleaned. They did a wonderful job and we will have them back for more work in the spring

Marnie Lemieux
September 3, 2025

Jared and Billicent came and removed a couple of trees and helped prune some large pines and cherry. Mathew came to finish grinding the roots. I found the staff very knowledgeable, passionate and competant in what they do. They were easy to book and deal with. They did a great job and left everything clean and taken care of. I would definitely refer them to others.

Andre Leger
September 3, 2025

Great job and very friendly workers.

Paul Brelsforth
August 18, 2025

From start to finish, Trusty Tree were amazing to work with. Kolton was accurate for the number of hours it took to complete the job. Hal and Brandon are an amazing crew to work with. Fast and efficient. They did a great job of pruning out trees and left my property clean as they found. Highly recommend them!

Valerie Stenson
August 5, 2025
Cathy Cech
August 4, 2025

Sarah from Trusty Tree was prompt, professional, very easy to talk to. We enjoyed our consultation visit and appreciated her expert advice. The tree planting team headed by Matthew were quick, professional, and answered many questions. We appreciated considerations such as the profile of the tree, bracing, mulching, and the clean up afterward. All around friendly fellows and great service. Highly recommended.

Beth Hiebert
August 1, 2025

Jared and his team from Trusty Tree Service were amazing! Thank you, Jared! Our trees have never looked so good on our acreage! You gave us advice like it was your own property but you were also, more than happy to find out what we wanted and needed done as well. The end product - was excellent! Thanks Jared and thanks to Trusty Tree for a job well done! I would highly recommend Trusty Tree to anyone who needs tree work done. Sincerely, Beth

Shauna Hollinger
August 1, 2025

Halcyon, Brandon and Chelsea came yesterday and removed 17 trees from our yard. They were excellent, polite, and left the site very clean afterwards. They also completed the work within 48hrs of me getting and approving the quote.I would absolutely recommend Trusty Tree

Ava Feenstra
July 30, 2025

Matthew and his crew did a great job for us. Would definitely use their services again.

Steve Fitzjohn
July 23, 2025

Great job of removing 3 columnar aspens from a difficult spot in our yard. The Trusty Tree folks are always on time, competent, knowledgeable, thorough and friendly. Thanks!

Kerry Achtymichuk
July 16, 2025

FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW YOUR COMPANY AND YOUR STAFF HAVE EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS. THE TREES LOOK AMAZING. YOUR STAFF WERE A PLEASURE TO WOORK WITH , PLEASE SEND THESE GUYS BACK NEXT YEAR. EVEN OUR NEIGHBORS HAVE COMPLIMENTED THE WAY THE TREES LOOK. THANKS AGAIN, SEE YOU NEXT YEAR. KERRY AND JOHN SAMUELSON

Holly JG
July 16, 2025

Brandon and Jared did a great job! Both were pleasant to deal with and very professional!

Claudine Nelson
July 10, 2025

Very prompt response to my request for tree removal. Crew arrived at time booked. Cleanup was very, very good. Great group to have work done by.

Cam Stobbe
July 8, 2025

I had a precarious tree that was threatening to come down on my fence. Hal and Grayson did professional work to safely take down this and a few other trees in less than the estimated time.

Carol de Jong
July 7, 2025

Way to go Jerrod, Brandon and Chelsey. Wonderful team. Excellent job to all three of you. Will use Trusty Trees in the future.

Ann Colbourne
July 2, 2025

Trusty Tree in my experience always provides timely, professional and expert services. The most recent job with Hal and Brandon was no exception. I look forward to the next opportunity to work with TT crews...always good value for money.

Ed Friesen
June 22, 2025

We were completely satisfied with the Tree cutting and chipping work of the Trusty Tree crew of Jared and Chelsey. Job well done!

Jeffrey Colton
June 19, 2025
Joe
June 12, 2025

Fast, efficient and friendly!

Ian Foster
June 9, 2025

Clear and consistent communication, helpful feedback and advice, prompt in responding to all questions. My neighbours also commented on how efficient the arborists were in completing the tasks. Would highly recommend.

Nancy Kasawski
June 7, 2025

Team arrived I on time, were polite, worked quietly and efficiently p. They cleaned yard when finished.

David Andrews
June 3, 2025

Jared and Chelsea were great they were prompt, quick and cleaned up all the debris as promised. Job well done. Thank you

Jamie Smith
May 25, 2025

We saw Trusty Tree at the home show and reached out 6 weeks later. Their quote was the lowest (by far) of 3 companies, the tree removal was very quick, professional, and clean up was exceptional. Stump grinding the following week was the same. Would recommend for sure! All wood was left, and I'm sure that the amount of birch we split and piled up is worth more than we paid to have the dead tree taken down!

Amber McCullough
May 21, 2025

I needed 5 spruce trees removed from my back yard.. The crews from Trusty Tree were exceptional! They were on time, fast, efficient, and they did a great job of cleanup behind them. I would use this company again in a heartbeat!

Steven Thi
May 21, 2025

Great service and friendly staff. Sarah was very informative with her estimates and when time came for tree removal Jared and Greyson were very thorough and took the time to make sure we were happy with everything before taking off.

Julian Doherty
May 20, 2025

Mike and his crew came to our house and they dropped a 60 foot spruce tree between two trailers beside a fence right out onto the road. Did an excellent job missing everything and the clean job was great. Job was done in absolutely no time.