When and how to prune apple trees

Apple cultivation has a long history and has diverse values ​​and wide applications. It is not limited to being eaten, but also involves many other uses, such as medicinal use, processing into jam or juice, use as wood , and extracting fruit oil. Scientific and reasonable pruning techniques play a vital role in the cultivation and management of apples. Let’s learn about the time and method of pruning apple trees .

1. Pruning time

Most fruit farmers choose to prune apple trees in winter, a period known as "winter pruning." However, in fact, autumn, especially September, is also a suitable period for pruning, which is called "autumn pruning". Autumn pruning can be carried out between August and October, mainly targeting new shoots, large branches and long branches, especially pruning young trees, vigorously growing trees and trees with fewer fruits.

2. Purpose and effect of pruning

Pruning can increase light in the lower part of the fruit tree, promote photosynthesis, and benefit nutrient accumulation and the growth of the whole tree, thereby increasing yield. By pulling the branches, the transformation of nutrients into reproductive growth can be promoted. Pulling and opening the angles of the main branches and auxiliary branches can help to moderate the growth potential of the fruit. Lightly pruning the young and tender parts of the new shoots in autumn can help reduce nutrient consumption and promote the formation of flower buds.

3. Precautions when pruning

Pruning tools should be disinfected before and after use to prevent the spread of disease. When pruning larger branches, do it in several steps to avoid splitting and ensure that the pruned area is smooth. After pruning diseased branches, they should be cleared out of the orchard in time to reduce the spread of the disease.

4. Other key points for apple tree management in autumn

There is less rain in autumn, but some parts of the south may experience continuous rainfall, so good drainage work needs to be done. Appropriate top dressing should be carried out, especially for young trees or fruit trees that have not been fertilized in the early stage, to promote nutrient absorption and increase apple yield and quality. Strengthen the prevention and control of pests and diseases, such as anthracnose, ring rot, red spot disease, leaf sucking moth, and fruit borer, to reduce or avoid the harm of pests and diseases to apples.

In short, September is an appropriate time to prune apple trees, which helps promote the healthy growth of the trees. During the pruning process, attention should be paid to disinfecting tools, avoiding splitting and promptly cleaning up diseased branches. In addition, other management work besides pruning cannot be ignored. The ultimate goal of all management measures is to increase apple yield and quality.