Ban on elm tree pruning lifted on Sept. 1st

REGINA – It’s almost time to get out and start pruning your elm trees.

The annual restriction on pruning elm trees in Saskatchewan ends on August 31st and starting September 1st homeowners are encouraged to prune their elm trees to keep them healthy.

Each year pruning elm trees are prohibited from April 1st to August 31st to reduce the risk of Dutch elm disease (DED).

Elm bark beetles are most active during that time period and are attracted to fresh cuts.

The province is reminding residents that early fall can be a good time for tree maintenance and having the leaves still on the tree makes it easier to spot and remove dead or unhealthy branches.