Isn’t it wonderful to have fruit and nut trees in your yard? It sure is. They are great resources, and it is just great to think that you harvest their yield in your yard. Fruit-bearing trees need to be trimmed regularly to help it produce abundant harvests, enhance its growth, and support its health. You should know the following things about fruits trees, to ensure that you are giving the right care your trees deserve.
Pruning Fruit Trees Takes Practice
Pruning trees, especially the fruit-bearing ones take constant practice. The process is both science and art that is why it requires the right knowledge backed with experience to get the job done right. Remember that not all types of fruit trees are the same. Each type requires a unique way of pruning to address its need for sunlight and growth patterns.
Arborists use three methods when pruning fruits trees. The first approach is the natural-habit system which is ideal for citrus, fig, and pomegranate. Another technique used is the central leader system where the tree is shaped with a tall center trunk. Trees that use this method include apple, cherry, pear, and pecan. The last method is called the open-center pruning which means the center leader of the tree is cut short. Tree service companies suggest the open-center approach for fruit-bearing trees like plum apricot, peach, and nectarine.
There’s a Perfect Timing to Prune Trees
When you see any dead or diseased branches in your fruit and nut trees, trim them away immediately. Don’t wait for the right season to correct the issue because not addressing the issue can lead to your tree’s death or damaged property due to fallen limbs.
For healthy fruit and nut trees, they can be pruned during their dormant season. They have dropped their leaves and have not yet formed new growths for the coming spring. It is ideal for pruning fruit tree form early January to mid-February. Don’t wait too long before pruning your fruit tree because of the risk of pest infestation and diseases in the wound of the pruned branches.
Trust an Expert to Trim Trees The Proper Way, At the Right Time
When you are unsure of the right way to prune your fruit and nut trees, don’t attempt to DIY the process or you will put your tree at risk of declining its health. A certified arborist is the best person to turn to when you have questions about trimming. They have the experience and the right skills to take on the job. A lot of tree species bear fruit in the latter part of the year, so it would benefit your trees if they get pruned by an expert.
One myth that we wish to debunk is that the more branches the fruit tree has, the more fruit it will yield. Because of this wrong idea, they neglect to trim and hope for more fruits. It can be true that they will produce more fruits but they can be small, and they will get energy from the tree more than it can give which can lead to health issues.