1. Why Prune Fruit Trees:

• Size Control: Pruning helps manage the size of the tree, making it easier for harvesting.

• Increased Yield: Proper pruning encourages fresh new stems, leading to more flowers and fruits.

• Sunlight and Airflow: A well-pruned tree allows sunlight and air to penetrate, promoting even ripening and preventing pest and disease issues.

• Dead and Diseased Branch Removal: Pruning rejuvenates trees by removing dead or diseased branches.

• Desired Shape: Pruning can shape the tree according to your preference.

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2. When to Prune:

• Apples and Pears: Prune every winter to ensure a good crop the following season. Pears may become biennial fruiters due to seasonal fluctuations.

• Feijoas, Olives, Figs, Chilean Guavas, and Citrus: Prune after harvest finishes. In cold areas, wait until after frosts have passed.

• Nectarines, Peaches, Apricots, and Plums: Prune in late summer after fruiting or in early/mid autumn if necessary. Avoid winter pruning to prevent silver leaf disease spread.

• Grapes and Kiwifruit: Prune in winter, back to 3-5 buds, and train long branches.

•  Cherries and Blueberries: Minimal pruning needed; shape and remove dead or diseased wood after fruiting.

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3. How to Prune:

• Research Your Tree Variety: Understand the best growing shape for your specific fruit tree (e.g., open vase, central leader, trellis, fan, espalier, or bush).

• Choose a Dry Day: Prune on a dry day to limit fungal spore spread.

• Use Sharp Secateurs: Make clean cuts on an angle, just above a bud or branch.

• Prune Lightly: Avoid excessive pruning.

• Trim Canopy: When reducing the canopy, cut above an outward-facing bud.

• Remove Entire Shoots: Cut close to the main branch.

• Dispose of Clippings: Remove all prunings and dispose of dead or diseased material.

• Seal Large Cuts: Use pruning paste or water-based paint for cuts larger than 2.5 cm.

• Spray Deciduous Trees: Apply a copper-based spray in winter to eradicate overwintering diseases.

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Remember, each fruit tree type has unique requirements, so adapt your pruning approach
accordingly. Happy gardening!