Too late to prune apple tree?
Apple NY
We have an apple tree growing at our summer house that is in desperate need of pruning. Unfortunately I only discovered it this week. I know that pruning is usually done when dormant but will it harm the tree if I was to do it now? The tree is currently fruiting, the apples look quite small compared with last year. Is this because I have neglected to prune my tree this year?
Posted
by: Cat Sullivan
(2 points)
Posted: July 5, 2013
Answers
Summer pruning will stunt the growth, compared to dormant-season pruning, so in my area some arborists recommend summer pruning (because in small yards, small trees are better, and smaller trees are easier to pick). In my summer-dry climate, summer pruning is better for rose-family trees such as apple because they are less susceptible to the water-borne diseases that abound in the rainy season.
I'd wait until after fruiting ends to start pruning.
To get larger fruit, you have to thin the fruit when it's tiny.
I'd wait until after fruiting ends to start pruning.
To get larger fruit, you have to thin the fruit when it's tiny.
Posted
by: Tanya in the Garden
(128 points)
Posted: July 5, 2013
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