What is the best time of year to trim apple trees?

The best time of year to trim apple trees is right before spring as winter ends, according to the Oregon State University Extension Service. Because the most severe and cold weather is finished, fresh cuts are not subject to ice damage, and the timing to start new growth is good.

However, an apple tree can be trimmed any time of the year without harm to the tree, explains the OSU Extension Service. Trimming a tree consists of four main objectives: limiting the tree's height to keep fruit reachable for picking, maintaining strong limbs for production of fruit and overall health of the tree, prompting growth of new limbs and eradicating harmful and diseased vegetation.