Pruning wounds on healthy trees usually heal over in 1 to 2 years as the result of the tree’s natural healing process. Make clean cuts at the outer edge of the branch collars.

It is usually best to prune lightly to moderately every year. It will result in over-stimulating the growth of water sprouts (suckers), cause a loss of fruit color and delay fruit maturity.

Severe pruning upsets the tree’s balance. Certain varieties such as Red Delicious and Macoun have a very upright growth habit that cannot be changed to a more spreading habit by pruning.Įxcessive pruning has adverse effects. Pruning does not alter the natural habit of the tree. Strong shoots with large leaves tend to arise at or near the site of pruning cuts. Leaves are the food-manufacturing organs of the tree and eliminating a portion of them (by removing the vegetative buds that will grow come spring) will reduce the total amount of growth the tree makes.

Although pruning stimulates shoot growth, especially near the sites where pruning cuts are made the overall effect is to reduce total tree size. The key to pruning is to understand the basic principles of pruning and adapt them to each tree. No single cultural technique is more challenging to many home gardeners than pruning. To get these results, home growers must pay careful attention to pruning, pest management, tree nutrition and other cultural practices. Backyard apple trees can be valued additions to the home garden, offering fresh, flavorful and healthful fruit, summer shade and the beauty and aroma of spring blossoms.

Free download pruning apple trees