I claim no expertise, but I usually prune mine very early spring (as soon as I can get to them after the snow melts), or late fall (after harvesting, and too late for them to put forth new growth). Of course, the moose prune them for me anytime during the winter or spring. I've had no ill effects at anytime. Pruning during summer would just cut off fruit after the tree had put a lot of energy into making that fruit, and therefore be wasteful. However, I don't think you'd have any long term harm to the tree. I know there's a right time and a wrong time to prune things, but I never remember when it is, so I just do it when I think about it, or when something about a tree or shrub is bothering me. The exception is my lilacs. I pretty much prune them when I'm supposed to--wouldn't want to lose even one bloom!

Best time for pruning almost anything is about February, before the sap begins to run. Exceptions are lilacs and maples I believe. However the next best time is right after blooming.

Kate

Gardenline is an excellent resource website, here's the link below....

btw, welcome to the forum!

Sharon

Here is a link that might be useful: Gardenline

I have a 10 year old Rainier Cherry tree that is blooming right now. Can I hurt it if I trim it right now, or trim it less....

Thanks,
Tom

I would go ahead