How to prune apple trees

Gardeners can understandably be hesitant about pruning their beloved apple trees, but carried out carefully and methodically it is a reasonably straightforward job. Here are instructions about when and how to prune an established apple tree. Many garden designers, horticultural consultants and landscape gardeners will know how to do this job, so if in doubt it may be worth getting in the experts.

Apple trees should be pruned during the winter when they are dormant. The basic principle of pruning an apple tree is to prune out dead branches, crossing branches, or diseased or weakly growth. By the time you have finished, you should have retained the overall outer shape and profile of the tree, but a blackbird should be able to fly through the branches easily (or some say you should be able to throw your hat through, a favourite adage of mine!).

Make sure your tools are sharp and clean. You will need secateurs, a pruning saw and a set of loppers. You may also need a long pruning saw/lopper with an extending handle. Take your time and stop to check your work regularly – walk away from the tree and look it over regularly. Do not take more than 20% of the wood from the tree in any one year - you can gauge your progress by leaving the pile of cuttings in one place at the base of the tree. When making cuts remember not to leave too long a collar, nor cut too close to the connecting branch/trunk. You should leave a collar of between 5-10mm for smaller branches that you are taking off.

You will notice that you tree has two different types of buds - the flatter buds that develop into a leaf or branch, and the more rounded and furry buds that go to become flowers and then fruit. When you are making cuts, be sure to make your nice, clean cuts about 5mm above a bud facing in the direction of desired growth; angle the cut should away from the bud to prevent rainwater running towards the bud - rain water can hold fungal spores or this can simply lead to the bud rotting if it is constantly wet.

Another great resource for learning about pruning apple trees can be found on the Thomposon & Morgan website.

To discuss apple tree pruning or indeed any garden design or horticultural consultancy requirements, give Tom a call on 0141 432 1141 or email on tom@tomangel.co.uk