We just got a Cortland apple tree the other day, so I picked up a book from the library on pruning. About apple trees it says this: "Annually [late winter or very early spring] remove broken branches, crossing limbs, weak stems, and any branches that grow toward the tree's center or grow vertically or downward. Thin out enough new growth to allow light to filter into the canopy when the tree has leafed out. Cut back to a sturdy side branch any too-long branches." -Sunset Pruning Handbook "For the cleanest cut, be sure the blade side of shears is closest to the portion of the stem that will remain on the plant.....The lowest point [should be] opposite the bud and approximately even with it; the cut slants upward in the direction the bud is pointing" -Sunset Pruning Handbook
Our extensions office is hosting a pruning class a few towns over this Saturday ~ I can't wait. They are going to cover apple, plums (and other fruit trees) and also high bush blueberries. I have 5 apples (all about 5 years old) and lts of other fruit trees, all young too, so I can't wait to get some hands-on experience trimming! Good luck! Val
Yay! I'm glad you got your fruit trees! I think I'll wait til next year for those and maybe buy my stuff at the farmers market for canning this year. Better not start out with too much on my plate or else I may get overwhelmed and give up! LOL Talk to you later.
Welcome to our farmette-ette-ette-ette (9000 sq foot city lot). Come on in! I may not stop what I'm doing while you're visiting, but feel free to join in. Mi casa es su casa!
