How do I Prune Old Overgrown Apple Trees?

Overgrown branches crowd out light and air.

A mature, overgrown apple tree is better for shade than apples. Neglected trees initially produce large quantities of poor quality fruit. Eventually, they produce very little fruit. Judicious pruning of such a tree can restore the vigor of the tree, increase fruit size and quality and promote a healthier tree. It also limits the size of the tree to make harvesting easier. Spread out heavy pruning of severely neglected trees over several years, removing less than a third of the growth each year.

Things You'll Need

• Small hand saw
• Loppers
• Pruning Shears

Instructions

1. Prune in late winter or early spring, while the tree is dormant, but after the last expected frost. The best time to prune apple trees is between February and April. Avoid pruning early in the winter when cold injury could result.

2. Prune over-grown and neglected trees heavily. Cut just above a bud or branch that is headed in the desired direction. Cut branches just above the branch collar, not flush with the branch.

3. Remove broken, dead or diseased branches back to a healthy junction.

4. Aim for a pleasing shape that is open to sun and air penetration. Space branches around the tree, removing any that rub or conflict with others or head downward or in the wrong direction.

5. Remove inner branches that prevent sun from penetrating the tree.

6. Avoid cutting off the top of the tree. Instead head back competing leaders and tall branches near the top of the tree. The tree height is controlled by limiting the uppermost branches rather than chopping off the top of the tree.

7. Remove branches with narrow crotches. These branches tend to grow vertically and the joint weakens as time goes by. Cut these branches away just beyond the branch collar.

8. Trim away water sprouts when they appear in the spring. Break them off by hand or clip flush with the tree using clean pruning shears.

References

• Ohio State University Extension: Pruning Mature Apples and Pears
• University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension: Care of the Mature Backyard Apple Tree