Pruning an apple tree is an important stage of tree care, affecting its health and productivity.
However, there are times when pruning can cause serious harm to the plant.
Knowing these critical points will help gardeners keep apple trees healthy and productive.
Period of active sap flow
In spring, when active sap flow begins, pruning an apple tree can lead to a significant loss of sap.
This period usually occurs in March-April, depending on the region and weather conditions. The loss of a large amount of sap weakens the tree, making it more susceptible to diseases and pests. In addition, abundant sap secretion makes it difficult for pruning wounds to heal.
Flowering time
During the apple tree blossom period, all the tree's energy is directed towards the formation of flowers and ovaries. Pruning during this period can lead to the loss of a significant part of the harvest.
In addition, stress from pruning can cause the flowers and young ovaries to fall off. Flowering usually occurs in May, but the exact timing depends on the apple variety and climatic conditions.
Fruit formation period
After flowering, when active fruit formation begins, the apple tree also needs rest.
Pruning at this time can upset the tree's nutrient balance, causing slower fruit growth or premature fruit drop. This period typically lasts from late May to mid-summer.
Hot summer time
During the height of summer, especially during periods of extreme heat and drought, pruning an apple tree can cause serious stress to the tree.
High temperatures and lack of moisture make it difficult for wounds to heal and increase the risk of sunburn on exposed areas of bark. In addition, summer pruning can stimulate the growth of new shoots that will not have time to become woody before winter.
Late autumn
Pruning an apple tree in late autumn, especially after the leaves have fallen, is also undesirable. At this time, the tree is preparing for winter, accumulating nutrients in the roots and trunk.
Pruning can disrupt this process, reducing the apple tree's winter hardiness. In addition, pruning wounds will not have time to heal before frost sets in, which increases the risk of wood damage.
Winter period
In most regions of Russia, winter pruning of apple trees is not recommended. Severe frosts can cause wood freezing through fresh cuts, which will lead to the death of branches or even the entire tree. The exception is regions with mild winters, where pruning is allowed during periods of thaw.
Time of diseases and pests
If the apple tree is affected by diseases or pests, it is better to refrain from pruning until the tree has fully recovered. Pruning a weakened plant can worsen its condition and slow down its recovery. In addition, using tools on a sick tree can contribute to the spread of infection to healthy plants in the garden.
Choosing the Right Time for Pruning
The optimal time for pruning an apple tree is considered to be the dormant period - late winter or early spring, before the sap begins to flow. At this time, the tree has not yet woken up, but the danger of severe frosts has already passed.
Light sanitary pruning can be carried out throughout the growing season, removing dry, damaged or diseased branches.
Author: Valeria Kisternaya
