fruit tree pruning

The following resources are provided by Master Gardener Allen Buchinski.

Presentation Material:

• Backyard Pruning Presentation (PDF) 

Links:

• The California Backyard Orchard (University of California)
• Fruit Trees: Training and Pruning Deciduous Trees (PDF), CHUCK INGELS, UC Cooperative Extension Farm Advisor, Environmental Horticulture, Sacramento County; PAMELA M. GEISEL, UC Cooperative Extension Farm Advisor, Environmental Horticulture, Fresno County; CAROLYN L. UNRUH, UC Cooperative Extension staff writer
• Calendar of Operations (search on UC ANR website)

Books:

•  California Master Gardener Handbook
• The Home Orchard: Growing Your Own Deciduous Fruit and Nut Trees, University of California
• Pests of the Garden and Small Farm, Mary Louise Flint, University of California
• How to Prune Fruit Trees, R. Sandford Martin

Pruning fruit trees is always a popular topic! Pruning will:

*Control tree's size for easier care in maintaining and picking fruit

* Increase strength - develop strong limb structure

* Distribute sunlight evenly throughout tree

* Regulate fruit bearing - remove excess fruitwood

* Renew fruitwood - continue strong buds and flowers

* Remove undesirable wood - dead, broken and crossing branches

The best time of year to prune fruit trees is the dormant season, December, January (best) and until the middle of February, but note summer schedule for Apricots.

See also the University of California guide for home orchards at http://homeorchard.ucdavis.edu

The workshop is free but registration is required. Please register by contacting RitaB@metroed.net or calling 408-723-6450 from Monday through Friday during business hours.

Join experienced Master Gardeners who will show you the best techniques for dormant pruning.