The best time for pruning varies with the type of tree but it is generally accepted that early winter is a good time to prune deciduous trees, as long as it is not frozen!  If there is no freezing yet, the leaves are gone and you can easily inspect the branches and tree structure for any signs of weakness.

For Evergreen trees and shrubs, you should wait until after the last winter freeze before pruning.  Early Spring is best.

After a heavy snow, your trees and bushes might be icy and covered with snow.  It is best to wait until everything thaws before trying to assess damage.  Shaking snow or ice off a plant can cause even more damage to it.

Here are some Fall landscaping tips for your yard from Integrity Landscaping:

• Shrub and Tree Planting – Fall is the perfect time to plant and encourage good root development.  Fall planting helps the plants establish themselves before Spring.
• Trim those yew bushes.  Now is the perfect time to shape and trim those yew bushes that grew wild during July and August.
• Lawn Problems?  Now is a right time to sod or spot-seed barren or damaged areas.
• It is still a good time for aeration and fertilization.
• Grub problems?  Fall is the right time to take control of the situation long term.
• Weed until a freeze.  Failing to continue weeding will cause your weeds to spread and could make next season even worse.
• No pruning for Spring shrubs!  Azaleas, Rhododendrons, and other flowering, spring shrubs have already set their buds for the following year; pruning them now will sacrifice next year’s spring flowers.
• If you want to add a lovely autumn look to your exterior, plant your hardy mums now.