[header] How to do basic dormant season pruning [title] Identify branches that are dead, diseased, or dangerous. [step] Unhealthy branches can be identified by dark lesions, indentations, or holes. Branches that are dead, diseased, broken, or growing near electrical wires or other hazards should be removed from your trees every year. 
Inspect your trees to decide what branches need to be removed when pruning. [substeps] If you prune away diseased branches, disinfect your tools immediately afterwards to prevent the spread of disease.