With the recent fires here in central WA, I have become more concerned about a stand of Pines that are close to my house. A few of the old ones have dead limbs hanging near the ground that would encourage candling should the duff around them catch on fire. I want to trim them up but I don't know what time of year is best for the tree. Also, there is a heavy layer of pine needles on the ground around them. Should I leave them there for the winter? I wonder if they help insulate the roots when there is snow. I appreciate any input.
