Fruit Tree Pruning Guide

Proper pruning is the key to productive fruit trees. Well-pruned trees have better air circulation, more sunlight penetration, and produce higher quality fruit—often more fruit per tree than unpruned ones.

Why Prune Fruit Trees?

• Light penetration: Fruit develops better with sunlight
• Air circulation: Reduces disease pressure
• Manageable size: Easier to harvest and spray
• Strong structure: Prevents branch breakage
• Quality over quantity: Fewer, larger, better fruit
• Longevity: Well-pruned trees live longer

When to Prune

Dormant Pruning (Late Winter)

Best time for most pruning—late winter before buds swell:

• Tree is dormant, less stress
• No leaves, easy to see structure
• Wounds heal quickly with spring growth
• Usually February-March

Summer Pruning

Light pruning to control growth:

• Remove water sprouts (vigorous vertical growth)
• Control tree size on vigorous trees
• Improve fruit coloring (remove shading leaves)
• Never heavy pruning—stresses tree

Essential Pruning Cuts

Heading Cut

Shortens a branch by cutting to a bud. Stimulates branching below the cut. Used to encourage bushiness.

Thinning Cut

Removes entire branch at its origin. Opens canopy without stimulating excessive regrowth. Preferred for mature trees.

Making Proper Cuts

• Cut just outside the branch collar (raised ring at base)
• Don't leave stubs—they rot
• Don't cut flush—damages collar
• Angle cuts to shed water

Pruning Young Trees

Training young trees establishes strong structure:

Central Leader System (Apples, Pears)

1. Select one central trunk leader
2. Choose 3-5 scaffold branches, well-spaced
3. Remove competing leaders
4. Remove branches with narrow angles (<45°)
5. Head back scaffold branches to encourage branching

Open Center System (Peaches, Plums, Cherries)

1. Remove central leader
2. Select 3-4 outward-facing scaffold branches
3. Creates vase shape with open interior
4. Maximizes light and air in center

Pruning Mature Trees

• Remove dead, diseased, damaged wood
• Remove crossing or rubbing branches
• Thin interior to allow light and air
• Remove water sprouts and suckers
• Lower height if needed for accessibility
• Never remove more than 25% in one year

Tools for Pruning

• Hand pruners: Branches under ¾"
• Loppers: Branches ¾" to 2"
• Pruning saw: Branches over 2"
• Pole pruner: High branches

Keep tools sharp and clean. Disinfect between trees to prevent disease spread.