Tree Pruning in Calgary

Professional pruning for healthy, safe, well-shaped trees


What you get with Arborista

Our pruning work is guided by three priorities:

Tree health — removing dead, damaged, or competing branches
Safety — reducing risk from weak or overextended limbs
Structure & shape — keeping the tree natural and balanced

We do not top trees or use aggressive cuts that cause long-term damage.

💲 Most residential tree removals fall between ~$150–$700 per tree

Proper tree pruning improves safety, tree health, and appearance — when it’s done correctly and at the right time. At Arborista, we prune trees carefully, following arborist best practices, with respect for your property and the tree itself.

How it works

  1. Send photos or book a quick visit

  2. We assess tree condition, access, and timing

  3. We schedule the work and handle the removal safely

  4. We clean up and leave your yard tidy

When tree pruning makes sense

Homeowners usually contact us for pruning when:

  • Branches are too close to the house, roof, or fence

  • Dead or broken limbs are present

  • Trees look overgrown or unbalanced

  • Wind or snow loads are a concern

  • Trees haven’t been maintained in years

  • They want healthier growth and better shape

Pruning is often the best alternative to removal — when done correctly.

Timing matters

Pruning is season-dependent, and some species have legal or biological restrictions.

For example:

  • Most trees are best pruned in late winter or early spring

  • Some species (like elms) have strict pruning windows

  • Emergency pruning can be done anytime if safety is a concern

If now isn’t the right time, we’ll tell you — and help you plan.

Pricing

💲 ~$150 – $700 per tree (on average)

Tree pruning pricing depends on:

  • Tree size and number of trees

  • Access (front yard vs backyard, obstacles)

  • Type and extent of pruning required

  • Cleanup needs

  • “Tony’s pruning restored our maple’s natural shape - trees have never looked better!”

    Quote SourceMark T., Airdrie

  • “Efficient, professional, and thorough cleanup. Highly recommend Arborista.”

    Jane D., Calgary

  • "Cherry tree blossoms so well this spring! And my bushes are cleaned up. Thanks for service Tony"

    Irina T., Calgary

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Not always. Some trees are healthy and structurally sound without frequent pruning.

    Pruning is recommended when:

    • Dead or broken branches are present

    • Branches are rubbing, crossing, or growing toward structures

    • The canopy is very dense or unbalanced

    • Safety is a concern (wind, snow load, visibility)

    If pruning isn’t necessary, we’ll tell you honestly.

  • It depends on the tree’s age, species, and location.

    • Young trees: light structural pruning every 1–3 years

    • Mature trees: maintenance pruning every 3–5 years

    • Fast-growing species: may need more frequent attention

    Over-pruning is harmful — proper timing matters more than frequency.

  • For most trees, late winter to early spring is ideal. Trees are dormant, stress is minimal, and wounds heal well.

    However:

    • Some species have specific pruning windows

    • Some trees should not be pruned during certain seasons

    • Emergency or safety pruning can be done anytime

    We always consider timing before recommending work.

  • Yes.

    Some species (such as elm trees) have strict legal pruning windows due to disease prevention. Pruning at the wrong time can spread disease and may be prohibited by law.

    If a tree has seasonal restrictions, we’ll advise you and schedule accordingly.

  • They are not the same.

    • Pruning uses selective cuts to improve structure, health, and safety

    • Topping removes large portions of the canopy indiscriminately

    Topping weakens trees, causes rapid unstable regrowth, and shortens tree lifespan.
    We do not top trees.

  • Stump grinding is optional and can be added to your service.

  • Often, yes.

    Proper pruning:

    • Reduces structural stress

    • Prevents decay from broken limbs

    • Improves balance and wind resistance

    Many trees that are removed prematurely could have been preserved with correct pruning earlier.

  • As a general rule:

    • No more than 20–25% of the live canopy should be removed in one visit

    Removing too much foliage stresses the tree and can lead to decline or failure.
    If more work is needed, it’s often better to phase it over time.

  • Yes.

    All branches and debris are removed unless you request otherwise.
    We leave the work area clean and safe.