Take a look at a good pruning book or the internet, and remember that pruning is a very logical process it’s not as difficult as it sounds. Also pruning controls growth, allowing air to circulate through the plant, keeping it healthy and allowing the sun in to ripen the fruits. This is important to limit the number of potential fruits, to make sure the ones that develop are a good size and quality. Basically you are pruning to encourage the formation of fruit buds and to control the size and shape of the tree. When the leaves have fallen it is easy to see the structure of the tree and make the right cutting decisions. Apples and pears are ideally pruned in late summer and again in winter. Time to prune?įirstly, let’s tackle pruning. It’s also the right time for a good clean up to try and minimise pests and diseases in the coming year.

It is an important time for pruning for some varieties and an opportunity to make sure the conditions are right for the coming season for all. It’s the time to plant new ones and to lavish a little attention on existing plants. The winter is an important time for fruit trees and bushes.

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