La pruning It is a technique that is carried out so that the sunlight can reach all parts of the tree well, so that it can develop and grow much better. In addition, with it you can get the plant to emit lower branches, so it will be much easier for us to collect its fruits once they are ripe.
But When and how to do it? If you want to know everything about apple pruning, read on.
When are apple trees pruned?
Pruning in apple trees should be done in early spring, once the frosts have passed but before the flowers begin to appear. It is not recommended to do it during the fall, since the new branches that sprout could freeze during the winter, nor during the flowering.
The ideal moment is just when the temperatures, both maximum and minimum, begin to rise, but the tree is still, apparently, asleep.
What tools do I need?
Choosing the right tools will allow us to work comfortably without damaging the tree. For this reason, it is very important to use clipper scissors for the thinner branches, a small hand saw for those with a thickness between 2,5 and 5cm, and a sierra for those that are thicker.
How are apple trees pruned?
Apple trees are trees that are given a slightly conical shape, so that the base has a greater diameter than the top. A) Yes, we have to prune / trim the following:
- Those that grow too big.
- Those that intersect.
- Those that look weak or sick.
- Those that grow down.
- The suckers, which are shoots that grow near the base of the trunk.
Later, we can use the remains of the pruning to make compost. Thus, we will not only obtain a fruit tree that will give exquisite apples, but also the remains will be used to fertilize or improve the garden soil.