Expert shares top pruning tips for fruit trees

Fruit orchards have long been a quintessential feature of the English countryside, and many of us may have happy memories of visiting as a youngster and collecting fallen apples, pears, cherries, plums and damsons.

There is a small taster of those orchards in many of our gardens, in the way of a fruit tree or two. Knowing when and how to prune these trees can be a source of anxiety – after all, some beginners may worry that they could prune too far or in the wrong places and damage the tree for good!

Luckily, Gerry Edwards, Orchard Expert at Henchman, is on hand to share his top tips to help people tend and train their fruit trees, ready for bountiful (and delicious!) harvests year after year…

“Fruit trees can not only be some of the most beautiful plants in our gardens but can also provide the most pleasure too – with people yielding the fruits to make their own tasty jam, pies, cakes and so much more.

By following my tips, beginners can ensure that they make the most of their fruit trees, helping them to flourish year after year.

‘Tis the season to prune

It may surprise some to know that trained trees and mature ones should be pruned at different times of year. Younger trees should be pruned during the summer, while it’s best to prune veteran trees in the winter, if required.

It is key to note that, however old the fruit tree is, it should only be pruned when it is needed, and not just for the sake of it. And of course, it is always best to plan where and when to cut the tree, not just hack at it!

Whatever the season that the tree is pruned, it’s best to wait until it’s not raining and to avoid very cold weather – under one degree centigrade – for the best results.

Pruning – why it’s important

Pruning trees can mean healthier plants with a more appealing, uniform look. Ultimately it also means that more fruit can be yielded too – a tasty bonus!

Modern fruit trees are generally grown on a dwarfing or semi-dwarfing rootstock that keeps their size down to manageable levels, so pruning them ensures a supply of fruit buds.

It’s vital though that the gardener understands the different sorts of trees, as spur bearing and tip bearing trees must be pruned differently.

Spur-bearing trees have more fruit buds per length of branch than do tip-bearing trees; they also tend to be shorter trees, have shorter branches and are slower growing. After several years the spurs get old and fruit quality will eventually decline. 

On the other hand, tip bearing trees only set fruit on the very tip of longer shoots.

The tools of the trade

Good secateurs, a strong pair of gloves, a pruning saw and a sturdy, reliable ladder, such as one by Henchman, are all essential to successfully pruning fruit trees.

When looking for a tool, make sure that the blade is sharp and clean, and that the tool is comfortable to use.

Pruning the fruit tree

Generally speaking, the first step when pruning a fruit tree is to remove dead, dying or diseased branches. Then thin out the extra branches and shape the tree, heading back the remaining branches to encourage new growth.

Aim to take between 10 and 20 per cent of the overall canopy off, working around the tree evenly. Don’t forget that you can always go back next year and take off more.

The more you prune, the stronger the regrowth, so be careful not to prune too hard!”

For more expert advice and to find the perfect Henchman ladders to help you create the ideal orchard, visit www.henchman.co.uk.

Ends

Editors notes

Henchman has been a pioneer of specialist garden ladders and safe hedge-cutting platforms since 1994, when it launched its first model at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Founded by father and son duo Mike and Tom Kitching, over the past three decades the company has evolved from a small family business to the leading garden ladder brand in the UK.

Based in Wiltshire, the dedicated design team at Henchman offers a wide range of unique products created to keep customers safe on uneven terrain while working at height.

Its collection includes the cutting-edge Fully Adjustable Tripod Ladder, Fully Adjustable PRO Tripod Ladder, the Hi-Step Platform, the Wheeled Henchman, as well as a range of large capacity wheelbarrows and accessories, all designed to make gardening a safe, sturdy and enjoyable experience.

Henchman has pioneered the way in ladder safety and is the first and only fully EN131 certified Tripod Ladder on the market in the UK and the rest of the world.

From the National Trust, to the England Rugby team and Royal Households, and not forgetting thousands of gardeners, DIY-enthusiasts and professionals, Henchman helps its customers get the job done, safely.