One of the most important parts of caring for a young apple tree is pruning it correctly. Pruning saplings, especially in the first few years, helps determine the structure and vigor of the tree. With a few simple steps and the right tools, pruning an apple tree sapling can help give it a healthy and productive life.
First you will need to determine the age of the tree. If the tree is two years old or younger, only remove severely damaged do not remove more than 50% of the current season’s growth. If the tree is two or more years old, thin out crowded branches about one-third of the way to their origin. This helps develop good structure and spacing.
The second step to pruning apple tree saplings is to gather necessary tools. For saplings, you’ll need a pair of hand pruners, garden loppers, and a pole pruner with a saw, if needed. Always purchase high quality tools so they will last longer and provide better results.
Thirdly, select branches for pruning. The goal is to create a sturdy framework of upright branches and remove crossing or growing branches that are unhealthy, broken, or weak. Start with the longest branches, then prune vertically, balancing branches removal on both sides of the trunk and opening v-shaped crotches to let more light and air inside the tree.
Fourthly, prune the selected branches. The most important thing to remember is to keep all cuts close to the trunk but avoid cutting into the bark. This can cause permanent damage to the tree. When using pruners, always use sharp blades and cutting them at a 45-degree angle.
Lastly, inspect and clean the pruning cuts. After pruning, make sure to cut off any ragged remains or uneven branches. This helps reduce potential for diseases to infect the tree. Always keep pruning tools clean between cuts, or use rubbing alcohol or a 10% bleach-water solution.
Crown Raising
Crown raising is an important part of pruning apple tree saplings. This technique involves removing the lower branches for a number of reasons. These include improving access and safety around the tree, as well as enhancing air circulation and access to sunlight. When crown raising, make sure not to remove too many branches or stems, as this can damage the tree.
When raising the crown, begin by identifying the tree’s natural point of attachment. This is the point where the tree’s leaves and branches meet the main stem. Begin by pruning the main stem and branches that extend below the desired height, then begin to selectively prune the outermost branches. Keep in mind that removing too many branches can effectively reduce the tree’s ability to photosynthesize and produce fruit.
Crown Thinning
Crown thinning is another important technique for pruning apple tree saplings. This technique helps create an open structure with evenly-spaced branches that allow the tree to breathe. Crown thinning also reduces the size and mass of the tree’s crown, helping to reduce the trees’ weight and lower its center of gravity.
When crown thinning a young apple tree, begin by removing any weak or dead branches. Next, prune away branches that are growing toward the tree’s center or crossing over other branches. Selectively prune evenly around the tree, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the total branch volume. The goal is to maintain the tree’s strong shape while creating a more open crown with few crowded branches.
Water Sprouts
Water sprouts are vigorous shoots that can develop at the base of the tree or along the branches. These sprouts compete for resources with other branches, resulting in reduced fruit production. To safely remove water sprouts, begin by cutting the sprouts at their base or removing them one-by-one. Make sure to make sure the cuts are made close to the trunk and angle the blade of the pruners away from the trunk.
Training Apple Trees
Training sapling apple trees is an essential part of allowing them a long, healthy and productive life. When training a sapling, remove any branches that are unproductive or weak, and make sure not to prune branches in a way that causes the tree to split or have too many leader branches.
To train an apple tree, start by trimming the leader branch to encourage more branch growth. This helps create a more open structure and stronger framework. Next, position the branches and young shoots in the desired direction, using galvanized steel wire or cloth. When tying-in the branches, make sure the ties are snug but not too tight. Keep in mind that apple tree branches and shoots must be trained for two to three years for optimal growth and fruit production.
Dormant Pruning
The final step involved in pruning an apple tree sapling is dormant pruning. Dormant pruning involves pruning the tree in late winter or early spring before the buds begin to swell. During this period, most of the tree’s energy is stored beneath the bark, making it easier to prune without the risk of stressing the tree.
When dormant pruning apple tree saplings, the same guidelines detailed above should be followed. Begin by pruning severely damaged branches and removing any weak, crossing, or healthy branches that are too low or too close together. Keep in mind that dormant pruning can last anywhere from three to five weeks and that it’s important not to prune more than 25 to 30 percent of a tree’s branches in any given year.
Maintaining Apple Trees
Once a young apple tree is pruned, it’s important to provide ongoing care to maintain its health. This includes regularly checking the tree for signs of disease or insect damage, as well as providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. Proper fertilization is also important to promote optimal fruit production.
When fertilizing an apple tree, do not use too much fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can damage the tree and leave it vulnerable to pests and diseases. It’s important to test the soil for nutrient levels and pH before applying fertilizer, and always use a slow-release fertilizer made for apple trees.
It is also important to inspect for pests or disease regularly and take action if needed. Common apple pests include aphids, mites, borers, and codling moths. To control these pests, use a combination of natural predators, such as ladybugs, as well as application of approved pesticides.
Finally, make sure to provide adequate irrigation throughout the season. Water is essential for optimal apple growth, and a well-established apple tree should have its water needs met during a drought. To save time and water, consider using an efficient micro-irrigation system with evenly spaced emitters.
Summary
Pruning apple tree saplings correctly is essential for giving them a healthy and productive life. Proper pruning involves removing severely damaged branches, thinning crowded branches, raising the crown, thinning the crown, removing water sprouts, and training the branches. It is also important to provide ongoing care for the tree, including fertilizer and adequate irrigation. With the right tools and techniques, pruning apple tree saplings will help ensure a long, healthy life.
