When To Prune Crabapple Trees

Question From: C. Litka - MICHIGAN
Q: I had three twenty foot crabapples pruned two years ago. They have now sprouted suckers at every cut that have grown six feet high. I was told by a friend that if I had had these pruned in the winter this would not have happened. True? How can I avoid this problem as the cost of pruning every year is too much and the trees are getting huge. Thanks.

A: These trees are best pruned in late winter or very early spring. The trees may also be reacting to improper pruning techniques. An onsite inspection from a certified arborist would be helpful. To find one in your area go to www.tcia.org and enter zip code. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy