Fruit Tree Pruning Instructions

Fruit tree pruning instructions assist novice gardeners in one of the most important tasks related to fruit production. Pruning makes a tree look visually appealing, helps sunlight to reach new fruit and can help to increase fruit size. Knowing when and how to prune your tree can help to keep your trees healthy and bearing fruit year after year.

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The frequency with which pruning is needed on fruit trees varies with the age of the tree. Young trees may need more aggressive pruning, while dwarf and older trees will need less frequent pruning.

When you buy new trees from a nursery, request that the trees be pruned before purchase. There may be an extra cost involved, but it will save time when planting your new trees. If the trees have already been pruned, no additional pruning will be necessary until next year.

Apple trees require pruning in the early spring. Remove damaged branches, suckers and vertically growing branches. Prune horizontal branches in the upper portion of the tree to maintain the shape (slightly rounded).

Apricot trees require heavy pruning in the early spring. Cut back vertical growing branches and central limbs to enable sunlight to reach the fruit easily.

Peach trees need to be pruned in the early spring. Prune one-third of the previous year's growth from all around the tree. If a tree experienced vigorous growth the previous year, up to one-half of the new growth may be pruned back.

Pear trees may be pruned in late winter or early spring. They should be trained to grow with one central trunk. On established trees, remove old and dead limbs in order to help sunlight reach fruit in the interior of the tree. The upper half of the tree may also be pruned to shape (slightly oval).

Avocado trees can be pruned at any time of the year, but for optimal growth stimulation, prune in the spring. The tree should be kept pruned to keep it the desired size (they may grow from 20 to 60 feet tall and up to 35 feet wide). Remove as little as possible since frequent and heavy pruning will greatly reduce the size of the tree. Any cuts larger than three inches across should be treated with water emulsion paint. Avocado trees have an irregular shape naturally.

Cherry trees should be pruned sparingly in the summer. This is done in order to reduce the risk of Silver Leaf disease. It is only necessary to prune back interfering branches or water sprouts. Additionally, any dead branches should be removed. Treat all cuts with pruning paste. The tree should be pruned into a vase shape so that sunlight can easily reach all of the fruit.

Citrus trees, such as lemon, lime and orange trees are not usually pruned until the plant has reached a height of three to four feet tall. The most important thing to remember about citrus trees is that they need strong branches in order to support the weight of the fruit. Second, wait until fruit has ripened before pruning it each year. When you are ready to prune the trees, prune the dead or damaged branches first. Next, prune back any long and slender stems (smaller than a pencil). Finally, cut any branches that cross each other. Citrus trees can be pruned to any shape; just remember to keep in mind that sun needs to reach the fruit in order for them to ripen.

Additional fruit tree pruning instructions may be available from your local Cooperative Extension or nursery. Call or visit them if you are unsure of how to prune your particular fruit tree.

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