When is the best time to prune apricot trees?

Apricot tree pruning

Pruning apricot trees can promote renewal and rejuvenation, improve ventilation and light conditions within the crown, slow down the vegetative growth of branches, cultivate more fruiting branches, increase fruiting parts, increase yields, and also improve the ornamental value.

Apricot tree pruning time

Apricot trees can be pruned in all four seasons of the year. The best time for pruning is from May to June. Winter is also suitable. Pruning should be carried out according to the density of the crown and the growth of the branches.

Apricot tree pruning method

1. Shorten

It is necessary to promptly prune back part of the one-year-old branches of apricot trees. This can stimulate the buds under the cut to sprout and grow 2-3 long branches, increase the number of fruiting branches, and improve the fruit yield. Shortening trees during the aging period can promote renewal and rejuvenation. The severity of pruning should be determined based on factors such as the thickness and length of the branches, as well as the variety and tree vigor.

2. Thinning

That is, the branches are cut off from the base, mainly the competing branches on the back and the dense branches, crossed branches, whorled branches and adjacent branches in the middle and upper parts of the crown, to increase the ventilation and light transmittance of the plant and reduce its nutrient consumption.

Apricot tree pruning precautions

1. Young tree stage

   If the apricot tree grows weakly, it needs to be pruned back, and the dense branches, thin branches, and old branches should be cut off to retain the strong branches. Through pruning, the loss of nutrients can be reduced, and nutrients can be accumulated, which is beneficial to later growth.

2. Fruit expansion period

   Pruning during this period is mainly to increase the fruit setting rate. The new shoots need to be pinched several times to increase the light transmittance inside the plant.

3. Peak fruiting period

   After the apricot tree enters the peak fruit-bearing period, it is necessary to ensure that the branches are growing well. By pinching back the weak branches and side branches at this position, more strong branches can be cultivated to achieve the goal of increasing production.

4. Aging

   Pruning of apricot trees during the aging period mainly involves leaving strong branches, pruning side buds, and performing shaping pruning in winter.