Fruit Tree Pruning Methods

Pruning is not only essential for yield of fruits but also for long and healthy tree life. But obviously following correct pruning methods is too much important for tree health. Instead of replacing a tree after a span of 10 or 20 years proper pruning can assure a lasting life for the tree and great yield. How fruit plants respond to pruning and how pruning work affects the tree, these two factors are important for longer life of fruit trees. A pruning cut is nothing but a wound from which the plat heal itself over a period of time, but this pruning cut helps to foster growth in the plant, increase lifetime, increase yield of fruits and furthermore keeps it in good shape. Here below we will introduce the advanced fruit tree pruning methods as per the modern research output of arborists.

The collar method

Collar method is a type of natural target pruning in which the branch collar is left on the main tree stem instead of removing the whole branch. Branch collar is the base area of a branch where the tissues of the branch and the main tree join together forming a wrinkled surface. Pruning the branch from this collar is a widely practiced method.

The branch Bark ridge

Pruning the branch from deep inside the branch ridge is another trusted pruning method. Every tree branch got some internal tissues that keep a close bond with the tissues in the tree trunk. When cutting the branch deeper affecting these tissues, it is called branch bark ridge pruning. Internal tissues of the branch form a raised ridge in the tree trunk and in this method pruning is done affecting this portion of the tree.

 Remove the branch safely

After pruning removing the pruned branch is as important as following the correct pruning method. While removing the branch make sure that it does not affect the tree trunk badly. After a well guided cut on the target area, remove the branch without causing damage to other branches and barks of the tree.

Tools for pruning trade

There is array of modern pruning tools for making your job easier and more precise. There are both hand pruners and loppers as per your requirement. As for blades you can choose between anvil styles or bypass style cutting blades. Bypass style is better for pruning as it makes clean and precise cuts, while anvil style make living tissue suffer in the process. Hand pruners are typically useful for branches up to ¾ inch diameter while for loppers 2 to 3 inch of diameter in branches is more suitable. For bigger branches loppers with compound action cutting can be more useful. There are also arrays of different saws for pruning. Fixed blade and folding blade saws are available with a choice of razor toothed saw blades.

Bad pruning cuts

Pruning cuts that are caused due to missing the target area can make the tree suffer and in many cases can hinder growth and can even lead to death of the tree. Ripped and torn cuts are considered bad pruning cuts that make the tree suffer. It is advisable to get the job done by professional arborists to avoid such damages.

Branch attachment

Considering the attachment of the branches in providing the tree its structural strength is one of the main aspects for a great pruning. While deciding to prune tree branches make sure that the overall branch attachment and structural strength does not suffer. Do not prune the main stem or top branches.

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