Apple and pear trees should only have a single central leader, the trunk extending into the ground, and it is preferable to remove additional ones to avoid weaker limbs in future years (Photo 2).
All of these types of shoots should be pruned. Trees will naturally produce too many shoots, some of which grow vertically (Photo 1), at narrow angles from branches, or too close to the ground. Pruning too late may cause trees to allocate energy towards more vegetative growth instead of fruits. Pruning too early in winter can affect their winter hardiness and lead to winter injury if cold temperatures occur too soon after making cuts. The best time for pruning fruit trees is January – March before buds open. Specifically, annual pruning is necessary to remove damaged branches, improve air circulation, promote plant growth in a healthy manner, and encourage bud and fruit formation on the correct branches. Gardeners growing fruits must recognize that actions during the off-season, when trees and shrubs are dormant, can be just as crucial. Michigan State University Extension frequently receives questions about fruit trees and their care during the growing season.
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