How to prune potted apple trees?

When to prune a potted apple tree

It is best to prune potted apple trees after the leaves fall in winter and before they sprout in spring. Pruning at this time is more beneficial and will not affect the germination of branches, flowering and fruiting. When pruning, special tools need to be used and the cut must be smooth.

After pruning the potted apple tree, you can increase its ventilation and sunlight exposure, allowing it to grow well. It is also beneficial for its flowering and fruiting, because after cutting off some useless branches, the nutrients can be more concentrated and more fruits can be produced.

How to prune a potted apple tree

1. Preparation of equipment

Before pruning potted apple trees, you need to prepare special scissors. If the tree is larger, you can use a small saw. Then you need to prepare diluted disinfectant, usually carbendazim or potassium permanganate, as well as some wood ash, and then you need to disinfect these tools.

2. Pruning

The pruning of potted apple trees is different from that of grape apple trees. Generally, you only need to prune off some crossed branches, overlapping branches, overgrown branches, horizontal branches and messy branches that do not conform to the shape. If there are dead branches and diseased branches, they also need to be pruned in time, and you need to pay attention to making the incision smooth.

3. Maintenance after cutting

After pruning the potted apple tree, the cut needs to be thoroughly disinfected. If a small saw is used for pruning, a knife is also needed to flatten it, and then apply disinfectant, and then apply wood ash after it dries.