How to prune a potted apple tree

When to prune apple trees

Potted apple trees can be pruned all year round. The purpose and method of pruning are different in different seasons. Pruning needs to be carried out according to the actual growth conditions of the plants.

When you use the pruned branches of a potted apple tree for cuttings, you need to choose strong branches with 5-6 buds on them. You can directly insert the branches into the prepared soil and then water them thoroughly.

How to prune the branches of a potted apple tree

In spring, it is better to prune potted apple trees early and lightly to prevent serious weakening of the tree. You can choose to prune them after the spring buds sprout, which can increase the germination rate and promote the growth of medium and short branches. Autumn pruning is done after the autumn shoots are about to stop growing, mainly to increase the germination of branches and buds in the next year.

Generally, there are many methods for pruning in winter. You can use a combination of thinning, shortening and pinching to prune potted apple trees, which is conducive to better growth of the plants in the coming year.

Apple Tree Pruning Tips

If you want to prune a potted apple tree, you should pay attention to the pruning time, preparation of tools, pruning techniques and post-pruning maintenance. Prune after the leaves fall in winter and before sprouting in spring. Prepare scissors, disinfectant and wood ash, and focus on pruning diseased, dead branches and messy branches. After pruning, pay attention to disinfection and ventilation.

Apple tree pruning grows fast

If you want the apple tree to grow fast, you need to cut off the dense branches and leaves in time and open the large branches at an angle. This can reduce nutrient consumption and help the plant grow faster.

Apple tree pruning flowering

If you want potted apple trees to bloom, it is usually necessary to perform spring pruning on varieties with weak germination ability, vigorous growing trees, or vigorous growing branches that need to be controlled. This can reduce nutrient consumption and promote flowering of the plants.

Apple tree pruning results in more fruit

If you want potted apple trees to bear more fruit, pinch off the autumn shoots of young and vigorous trees when pruning, thin out the dense leaves, flatten the upright branches, hang the drooping branches, adjust the branch angles, and remove some of the leaves that block light around the fruit.

Tips for pruning potted apple trees

After pruning the potted apple tree, the cut needs to be disinfected more thoroughly. After it dries, apply wood ash to help dry the moisture. When watering afterwards, be careful not to splash water on the wound.