The pruning of shrubs and fruit trees is an essential practice for their development and fruiting. Indeed, it stimulates the growth of branches, eliminates dead and diseased parts, regulates fruit production and maintains an aesthetic shape. In this article, we’ll look at the various pruning methods and when to prune.
pruning techniques
There are several pruning techniques, adapted according to the species and the desired objectives.
training size is an important process in the growth of a fruit tree. This involves pruning techniques from an early age of the tree to ensure balanced and harmonious growth. Training pruning also allows fruit trees to produce quality fruit in addition to making them more weather resistant.
It is particularly important for pome fruit trees such as apple and pear trees. Indeed, proper training pruning will allow the tree to have a strong and balanced structure, which promotes healthy and long-lasting fruit production. Furthermore, this technique will allow the arborist to prevent and manage diseases and pests that can affect the quality of the fruit produced.
maintenance pruning is an important technique for maintaining the shape and size of a tree or shrub. It is not limited only to eliminating dead or diseased branches, but also consists of pruning branches that cross or rub against each other.
In addition to promoting air and light circulation within the fruit tree, this technique also stimulates bud growth and reduces crown density, improving the quality of fruit production. . It should be emphasized that maintenance sizing or pruning should be done regularly to maintain the health of the tree and avoid problems with overproduction or underproduction of fruit.
rejuvenation size is a technique used on old trees and shrubs with the aim of restoring vigor and youth to the plant. It involves removing the oldest branches and encouraging the growth of new branches. This is because older branches tend to be less productive and show signs of weakness, while newer branches are more vigorous and may produce more fruit.
It is useful for fruit trees that have lost their vitality and no longer produce as much fruit as before. By removing older branches and encouraging the growth of new branches, rejuvenation pruning can help increase fruit production. Additionally, this technique can also help improve the overall health of the tree by reducing the spread of disease.
Pruning periods
The pruning of shrubs and fruit trees must be carried out at specific times, depending on the season and the species.
winter pruning takes place in winter, when the plant is dormant. This is the time to prune pome trees (apples, pears) and shrubs with small fruits (raspberries, currants). It is also ideal for training pruning. This period is also conducive to reducing the height of the tree.
spring pruning is practiced at the end of winter or at the beginning of spring, before flowering. This is the time to prune stone trees (cherries, plums) and berry shrubs (blackcurrants, blueberries). It stimulates branch growth and promotes fruit production. This period is also conducive to the regulation of fruit production.
Summer pruning is carried out in the summer, after fruit harvest. It limits the growth of branches and promotes fruiting for the following year. It is especially recommended for fruit trees that tend to produce small fruits. This period is also conducive to reducing the height of the tree.
The pruning of shrubs and fruit trees is an important practice for their health and productivity. It is recommended to learn about the specificities of each species and to respect the pruning periods to obtain the best results. Do not hesitate to seek professional advice if you have any doubts or questions about the size of your fruit trees and shrubs. With a little patience and know-how, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy and tasty fruit in your garden every year.
