Why? One good reason: Fruit trees are healthier if pruned to allow good air flow and sunlight in.
When? Now's the time for pears and apple trees. Spring is better for other fruit.
Tools? Just secateurs, pruning saw and lopers.
How? We heard the principles of pruning, including cut just outside of the collar, avoid cutting through a node. Make the easiest decisions first – crossing branches and vertical growth from side branches (fruit is produced on horizontal branches). Buds are often branch potentials and the way they face is the way the branch will grow. Obvious now, but it took someone to tell me it to make it obvious to me.
Who? Julia, Christine, Jason & me, Kate & Brent (neighbours)
According to Paul once you learn the principles, pruning is easy, enjoyable, artistic and meditative. What's not to like there?
Written by Kate Leslie