So let me guess, you’re a beginner who’s somehow managed to grow an apple tree but are unsure about pruning and how to go about it. Well, worry not; I’ve got your back! 

I often see gardeners on the internet discussing growing processes, care routines, types of fertilizers, and more, but pruning is rarely mentioned. It’s a crucial part of tree care that’s often overlooked, resulting in slow growth and poor fruiting over time. 

So, before we get to the how part, let’s first discuss the why because, as a beginner, you want to know why you’re doing something in your garden and what effect it will have. 

Pruning essentially means trimming down your plant/tree by removing dead branches and weak foliage to give it a tidier, much neater look.

However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that pruning only has an effect on the physical appeal of your plant.

By removing weak growth, you reduce stress on the tree and improve air circulation, which helps lower the risk of fungal diseases and prevents suffocation. 

Amongst experienced gardeners who’ve been growing apple trees for decades, the general consensus seems to be that late winter and spring is the best time to prune apple trees

Wait for the tree to go dormant before pruning. In most cases, the leaves will be shedding around this time. Keep in mind that you don’t want to prune when winter is still harsh and roaring; late winter works best because the worst of the cold weather is already past. 

Pruning tools

The first step of any pruning task is gathering the tools needed. You’ll need:

  • Pruning shears;
  • A pruning saw;
  • Loppers;
  • Gloves, to prevent nicks and cuts.

Make sure all your tools are clean and sharp before use. 

Pruning a young apple tree with garden secateurs

DO NOT start pruning right away! First, stand at a distance and only assess your apple tree.

Spot the thickest areas where growth is dense and branches are tangled. Weak foliage is also something to look out for. 

Pruning smaller branches

Once you’ve figured out what areas of the tree need pruning, start by chopping off any large dead branches in the way first. As you’re trimming, you’ll notice smaller branches that are perhaps weak and diseased, cut them off too. 

Shaping the tree

Pay attention to the tree’s shape and make sure to give it a tidy look. Overgrown areas are typically not the most visually appealing so trim them down to a manageable size. Ensure the main trunk remains tall and upright. 

Once pruning is complete, water your tree immediately and monitor it for the next few weeks to make sure it remains stress and disease-free. 

  • Make clean cuts just above a bud or branch;
  • Sterilize tools between cuts to avoid spreading disease;
  • Prune no more than 25% of the tree in one season.
  • Leave stubs or jagged cuts;
  • Prune during active growth unless absolutely necessary;
  • Remove too many fruit-bearing branches.
  • More is not always better when it comes to pruning or rather any gardening task. Going overboard with pruning will only result in a stressed apple tree that only gets worse as time goes by. 
  • Mindlessly pruning only because you “want to” or have been told to isn’t a great idea. You’ll likely end up over-pruning or pruning when it’s really not necessary. 
  • Using dirty and rusty tools for your pruning tasks increases the chances of your tree catching a fungal disease.

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