A tough tree that needs early work

In UF/IFAS research after Hurricane Ivan, 91% of live oaks survived, and the species ranks in the highest wind-resistance group. But UF/IFAS's fact sheet on southern live oak (ST564) says one of the biggest problems with live oaks in cities is lack of pruning, so it is not a plant-and-forget tree. Because a live oak can live for centuries, its trunk and branch structure has to be set early.

How often to prune

ST564 recommends pruning live oaks every year for the first three years after planting, then about every five years until the tree is around 30. UF/IFAS's Gardening Solutions page gives a slightly different schedule (yearly for five years, then every three years), so treat these as a range: frequent early pruning, then regular check-ups.

What the pruning is for

One dominant trunk. ST564 says to eliminate multiple trunks while the tree is young.
Strong branch attachments. ST564 says to remove branches that form a narrow angle with the trunk, since they are likely to split from the tree as it grows older.
Clearance. ST564 notes its pruning program also develops clearance under the canopy; plan early for limbs that will reach over the roof, drive or sidewalk.

What not to do

Do not lion-tail. The Marion County Extension office warns that improper pruning such as lion-tail pruning, which it also calls hat-racking, makes trees much more susceptible to storm damage and more likely to fall.
Give the roots room. ST564 advises giving live oak adequate soil space, and notes the roots will grow under curbs and sidewalks.

Pests and problems

ST564 says live oak is usually pest-free and that most galls are harmless. Gardening Solutions notes you may occasionally find galls, scales, aphids or boring insects, and that young or weakened trees are more susceptible. ST564 adds that oak wilt has devastated live oaks in parts of central Texas. A tree that is suddenly thinning or dropping limbs should be looked at by an arborist.

Storm-season care

The UF/IFAS Extension office in Marion County suggests having any questionable trees inspected by an ISA Certified Arborist months before hurricane season, clearing drains and gutters before a storm, and turning off irrigation. After a storm, it notes that large old trees that are mostly uprooted are best removed. For tree removal permits inside the City of Ocala, and the state rule on documented hazard trees, see our permit page.

We prune live oaks to these structural goals, not to a shape. You get a written price and a plain description of the cuts before we start.

Sources: UF/IFAS, Quercus virginiana: Southern Live Oak (ST564) · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions, Live oaks · UF/IFAS, Selecting Coastal Plain Species for Wind Resistance (FR174) · UF/IFAS Extension Marion County, landscaping care before and after a storm · checked 2026-11-01

Pruning and caring for live oaks in Marion County