As an arborist and Horticulturist I have spent many days in the trees. Every spring I look forward to the opportunity to prune fruit trees. A relatively simple process there are a few tips that I find are important to remember;
- Use good sharp tools, I prefer my felco #6 hand pruners and my pole pruners - Pick a dry sunny day in early March
- Have a step ladder handy and have a plan!
- Start by pruning anything that is damaged, diseased, or dying.
- Prune of any water sprouts or branches going straight up to the sky. Fruit is produced on the branches parallel to the earth.
- Make clean cuts, preferably slightly angled, they will heal faster.
- Be patient, it may take several seasons to get an old neglected tree back into tip- top shape. Please don't remove too much at once!

And when in doubt, call in a Certified Professional!

When you're finished give a quick spray with lime sulfer (this will help with the scale and over wintering bugs!), and a shot of granular fruit tree fertilizer.

It is important for fruit trees to be open in the middle, this will allow for good air circulation and loads of sun, necessary to produce fruit and fight of problems. Fertilize a few times throughout the season and remember to supply extra water when necessary. It takes tons of energy to produce fruit! Enjoy!