It’s September 1st; time to prune those elm trees. Between April 1st and August 31st, residents are banned from pruning elms to reduce the risk of spreading Dutch Elm Disease. The elm bark beetles that can carry the disease are most active during that time and fresh cuts from pruning can attract them. Regular pruning, outside of the ban period, helps keep the trees healthier and less vulnerable to diseases. But you have to do it right. Pruning incorrectly can actually spread tree diseases. And remember, it’s illegal to transport or store elm firewood.