Are you looking for how to prune cherry trees? Then you are in the right place. In 2019 at the start of the coronavirus, in the quiet solitude of my backyard. I stood beneath my young cherry tree; the branches were reaching for the sky.
With the help of a pruning shear, I carefully assessed each limb, cutting off the dead branches and pruning the overgrowing ones. I got a new shape, a symphony of beauty, to my backyard after the pruning exercise.
I felt a sense of satisfaction and the promise of a bountiful harvest when I saw beautiful new blossoms springing up after a few weeks. Let’s get into the nitty gritty of pruning cherry trees like a pro.
How to Prune Young Cherry Trees
Pruning young cherry trees is critical to shaping their structure and ensuring healthy growth. Here are the steps to prune young cherry trees:
1. Head back to the central leader to promote lateral branching.
2. Choose the strongest lateral branches and remove any others that are less productive.
3. Cut back all other lateral branches by about one-third to promote better spacing and light penetration.
4. Remove any suckers or water sprouts that may appear on the Tree.
5. Thinning out the canopy to promote good air circulation and light penetration.
How to Prune Mature Cherry Trees
Pruning mature cherry trees is essential to maintain their health, structure, and fruit production. Here are the steps to prune mature cherry trees:
1. Remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as they appear.
2. Thin the canopy to promote good air circulation and light penetration.
3. Remove any crossing or rubbing branches to prevent damage to the bark.
4. Cut back any branches that hinder airflow to promote healthy growth.
5. Cut back vertical shoots to promote stronger lateral branching.
With these tips, you’re well on pruning your cherry trees like a pro. Remember to prune at the right time, use the right tools, and remove the right branches.
How to Prune Cherry Trees for Increased Fruit Production
Pruning should be done in the winter before flowering to avoid removing any blossoms that would turn into fruit. Follow these steps to prune cherry trees specifically for increased fruit production:
- Prune in the Winter Before Flowering
Late winter is the best time to prune cherry trees before new growth begins. It lets you see the Tree’s shape and where you need to make cuts.
- Thin Out the Canopy to Allow Light Penetration
Cherry trees require a lot of sunlight to produce fruit. By thinning out the tree canopy, you can promote airflow and allow more light to penetrate the Tree.
- Reduce the Number of Fruit Buds on Each Spur
When pruning a cherry tree, it is critical to prune any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. reduce the number of fruit buds on each spur.
Reducing the number of fruit buds on each spur allows for larger, juicier fruit
and less strain on the Tree.
- Remove Any Water Sprouts or Suckers
Water sprouts and suckers are shoots that grow from the tree’s base or roots. These shoots divert energy away from the intended growth of the tree and it’s essential to remove them to promote optimal fruit yield.
When is the Best Time to Prune Cherry Trees
Knowing when to prune cherry trees is crucial to ensure the best results. Pruning at the wrong time can damage the Tree and decrease fruit production. Here are some tips to help you determine the best time to prune your cherry trees:
· Understanding the Growth Cycle of Cherry Trees
Cherry trees have a distinct growth cycle, broken down into two phases. The first phase is the dormant season, from late fall to early spring. During this time, the Tree is in a state of rest, and growth is minimized. The second phase is the growing season, which runs from early spring to summer
· Pruning in Winter:
Winter is an excellent time to prune cherry trees, especially if you live in a colder climate. During this time, the tree is dormant, and it’s easier to see the branch’s structure. Pruning in winter also reduces the disease risk since the wounds have time to heal before new growth begins.
· Pruning in Spring
Spring is also a good time to prune cherry trees, especially when dealing with suckers or water sprouts. However, it’s crucial to prune early in the growing season to avoid interfering with flower and fruit production.
- Avoid Pruning in the Fall
Avoid pruning cherry trees in the fall, especially if you live in a warmer climate. Late pruning can stimulate new growth, which may not harden off in time for winter and can be damaged by winter frost, and the wounds may not heal quickly enough, increasing the disease risk.
What Tools Are Needed to Prune Cherry Trees
Having the right tools is essential to prune cherry trees effectively. Here are the tools you will need:
· Pruning Shears
Pruning shears are useful for trimming tiny branches stem up to ¾ inches in diameter. Look for high-quality pruning shears with sharp blades and a comfortable grip.
· Lopping Shears
Lopping shears are great for cutting larger branches up to 2 inches in diameter. They have longer handles, which give you more cutting power and leverage.
· Pole Pruner
A pole pruner is essential for cutting branches that are out of reach. Look for one with a sturdy pole and a sharp cutting blade.
· Saw
A saw is necessary to cut larger branches (over 2 inches in diameter) and remove stubborn wood.
· Gloves
Wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts, scratches, and allergens.
· Protective Clothing
Protective clothing, including eye protection and a hat, to protect your skin and eyes from debris and the sun.
How to Identify Which Branches to Prune
Pruning cherry trees can be daunting, especially if you don’t know which branches to remove. This section will guide you in identifying which branches to prune.
· Dead, Diseased, and Damaged Branches
You should remove dead, diseased, and damaged branches to prevent disease spread and improve air circulation.
· Suckers and Waterspouts
Suckers and waterspouts are shoots from the roots or the Tree’s base. They should be removed as soon as they appear to prevent the Tree from concentrating its energy on them instead of fruit production.
· Crossing or Rubbing Branches
Crossing or rubbing branches can damage the bark and create wounds that insects and diseases can enter. Removing the weaker or less productive branch is best, leaving the stronger branch to grow.
· Overgrown Branches
Overgrown branches can shade the Tree’s interior, decreasing fruit production and promoting unhealthy growth. Look for branches that overlap others or prevent sunlight from reaching the inner part of the Tree.
· Branches that are Growing Vertically
Branches that grow vertically should be removed because they produce minimal fruit and shading on the lower part of the Tree.
Tips for Pruning Cherry Trees
Pruning cherry trees can be tricky, but taking these tips into cognizance can
make the process easier and ensure optimal results.
· Avoid Pruning During Wet Conditions
Pruning during wet conditions can result in the spread of disease and infections within the Tree. Wait for dry weather conditions before pruning.
· Cut at a 45-Degree Angle.
When making cuts, ensure that you cut at a 45-degree angle to promote healing and prevent water from settling on the cut wound, which can lead to rotting.
· Don’t Remove More Than 30% of the Tree.
It’s essential not to remove more than 30% of the tree during pruning, as this can shock the tree and hinder future growth.
· Sanitize Tools Between Cuts
Sanitize your tools between cuts to prevent the spread of
disease and infections.
When to Call a Professional to prune Your Cherry Tree
Pruning cherry trees is straightforward, but sometimes you should call a professional. Here are some situations where you should consider hiring a professional:
· If You Have a Large Cherry Tree
If you have a large cherry tree that requires extensive pruning, it’s best to call a professional.
· If the Tree is in a Dangerous Area
If the cherry tree is in a dangerous area, such as near a power line, it’s best to call a professional to prune it safely.
· If You’re Uncomfortable with Heights or Using Power Tools
If you’re uncomfortable with heights or using power tools, it’s best to call a professional to prune your cherry tree safely.
Now that you know how to prune cherry trees like a pro, you can follow the this guide to give your tree a befitting Pruning at the right time for optimal fruit production. Remember to avoid removing more than 30% of the Tree, sanitize your tools between cuts, and call a professional for help if necessary.
FAQs
Why Should I Prune My Cherry Tree?
Pruning cherry trees can promote optimal fruit yield, promote tree health and longevity, and prevent the spread of disease and infections.
When is the Best Time to Prune Cherry Trees?
The best time to prune cherry trees is late winter before new growth begins.
Do I Need Any Special Tools to Prune My Cherry Tree?
You will need gardening gloves, hand pruners, lopping shears, and a pruning saw.
How Do I Identify Which Branches to Prune?
Identify and remove any dead, diseased, damaged, or crossed branches.
Can Pruning Stimulate Fruit Production?
Yes, pruning can stimulate new growth and promote optimal fruit yield.
How to Prune a Cherry Tree That Has Never Been Pruned?
Prune the cherry tree’s dead, diseased, or damaged branches first, then follow the steps outlined in this article.
How to Rejuvenate an Old Cherry Tree?
Remove all dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and reduce the number of fruit buds on each spur, and thin out the tree canopy to promote optimally growth and fruit yield.
Can I Prune Flowering Cherry Trees in Winter?
Yes, you can prune flowering cherry trees in winter, but it’s essential to avoid pruning during the tree’s dormant phase, as this can harm the tree.