If you have fruit trees, knowing the proper pruning techniques for fruit-bearing trees and bushes can really give you satisfying yields. Whether you want to enjoy fresh cherries, crisp pears, or juicy apples, this pruning activity can really boost the production of your healthy harvest. Pruning is done to make sure that your fruit tree can produce abundant yield. And in order to do so, the right care and treatment need to be done.

Pruning the Fruit Trees

So, how to prune fruit trees? Well, it depends on the time, really. There are only two timing options: You will do it in winter months or during summers. Each comes with its own strength and flaws.

  • Winter Pruning
    The pruning activity takes place during the dormant phase of the tree, which means that it’s done before the growth period. The trees will be likely bare, so you have a better view of the branches. Winter pruning can encourage shoot growth, providing more space for the branches so they are ready to produce more fruits. Keep in mind, though, that the wound will heal slowly because of the dormant phase, so you need to do it closer to the end of the winter period. It usually happens from February to April. However, winter pruning isn’t advisable if the temperature is below -4 degrees Celsius.

  • Summer Pruning
    Another option for pruning techniques for fruit-bearing trees and bushes takes place during summer months. This action is done when you want to make light corrections or you want to remove any diseased or overly dense growth. It will slow the (wood) growth down, encouraging fruiting wood’s formation. It’s advisable to do it from July to August because the wounds would likely heal quicker.

The Importance of Pruning

Pruning is done to control the growth of many branches and shoots. When there are too many of them, the overall tree doesn’t get the nutrients it needs, which leads to not-very-healthy tree conditions. But when you remove the unnecessary (or unimportant) branches, the important nutrients can flow to the proper parts. In the end, your tree will be healthy and strong. Removing unnecessary branches won’t hurt the tree. It will actually support newer development and encourage better growth.

How to Do It

pruning branches

So, how do you manage the pruning in a step-by-step manner?

  • Check the branches for broken or dead ones. You want to clean these deadwoods up so the possibility of risks can be reduced. Simply cut and remove them.
  • Trim the suckers and sprouts. Not only can these sprouts ‘ruin’ the appearance of the tree, but it will also suck out the energy. It will affect the overall health of the tree.
  • Thin the branches out, so the overall tree can get more air and light. Next, you want to remove any branches that run downwards, sideways, or even crowding over.
  • Take a step back to observe your tree. If you see the spaced out branches evenly, then you are good. Keep in mind that you want to keep the best and healthiest branch within the best angle.
  • Next, you want to do the topping, which means that you need to prune the tree’s top. But if it’s not needed, then consider skirting. It refers to the action of cutting any branches that hang low, almost reaching the ground.
  • The last one is to head back, which means that you want to shorten the new shoot or any branch. It’s done to encourage and support growth. It’s usually done on the tree’s outer edges.

Conclusion

As you can see, pruning the fruit tree isn’t difficult, but you need to do it properly. When you know the correct pruning techniques for fruit-bearing trees and bushes, you can make your trees well and solid.