Now is the time, if you haven’t done so already, to prune your apple and pear trees.  The rule of thumb is to first remove dead, diseased and damaged branches and any branches that are crossing over each other. You need to maintain an open goblet shape and may have to remove any larger branches that are crossing over in the centre of the tree.  Do not attempt to cut out too many larger branches at one time as this will lead to vigorous growth and you will be left with water shoots after the growing season is over.

Trees fruit either on spurs or towards the tips of the branches.  For spur-bearing varieties, shorten previous year’s growth on each main branch by one third to an outward facing bud that will then develop into a new branch.  Cut back any young side-shoots or laterals to five or six buds unless you think they will make strong secondary branches.  Remove any spur systems that have become overcrowded.

For tip-bearing varieties (e.g. Bramley) then prune both main branches and vigorous side-shoots (laterals) to the first strong bud.  Do not cut back any laterals that are 30cms or less in length.  You can cut back some of the older fruited wood to a young shoot or leaf bud if the tree is congested.

In early Spring, mulch the base of the trees with an organic compost and a general purpose feed of Growmore.   This will only be beneficial if you have removed weeds and grass growing up to the trunk of the tree.  The trees should not compete for nutrients if you want a good crop of fruit.

If you are not happy pruning your own trees, then why not contact us, we would be delighted to help.