Apple trees can live for a very long time, but eventually they will start to produce less fruit and become less vigorous. Pruning an old Apple Tree is a necessary step to keep it healthy and productive.
Checkout this video:
Reasons for pruning an old apple tree
Apple trees need to be pruned every year to produce the best fruit possible. However, pruning an old apple tree is a bit different than pruning a young one. Here are a few reasons why you should prune an old apple tree:
1.To promote new growth – Old apple trees can become stagnant and stop producing new growth. Pruning will stimulate new growth and make the tree healthier.
2.To encourage fruit production – Pruning an old apple tree will help promote fruit production by removing any dead or diseased branches.
3.To improve air circulation – Good air circulation is important for an apple tree to stay healthy and produce fruit. By pruning away any branches that are crowding the tree, you will improve air circulation and prevent disease.
4.Toshape the tree – Over time, an apple tree can become overgrown and unruly. By pruning it annually, you can keep it tidy and shapely.
The best time of year to prune an old apple tree
The best time to prune an old apple tree is in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins.
Here are some tips on how to prune an old apple tree:
-Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches first. Cut these back to the main trunk or to a healthy side branch.
-Next, thin out congested areas of the tree by removing some of the older branches. This will promote better air circulation and allow more sunlight to reach the inner parts of the tree.
-Finally, prune any branches that are growing vertically or at excessively steep angles. These branches are more likely to break during high winds or when bearing heavy fruit. Cut these back to a lateral branch that is growing at a more moderate angle.
How to prune an old apple tree
Cut away any dead or diseased wood
When pruning an old apple tree, the first thing you need to do is remove any dead or diseased wood. This will help improve the tree’s overall health and appearance. Diseased wood is usually darker in color and may have different textures than healthy wood. Once you have removed all of the dead or diseased wood, you can begin pruning away any excess growth.
Cut away any crossing or rubbing branches
Old apple trees can be an eyesore in your backyard or orchard, but with a little pruning they can be brought back to their former glory. Follow these tips and your old apple tree will produce plenty of fruit for years to come.
-Start by cutting away any crossing or rubbing branches. These rub against each other and can damage the bark, which can lead to disease problems.
-Next, cut away any dead or diseased branches. These should be cut back to the point where they branch off from a healthy part of the tree.
-Once you’ve removed the dead and diseased branches, you can start pruning for shape. Start by cutting away any suckers that are growing from the roots or lower trunk of the tree.
-Next, prune away any branches that are growing straight up or down. These don’t produce fruit well and take away from the overall shape of the tree.
-Finally, cut away any branches that are too low to the ground. These can get in the way when you’re mowing or doing other yard work.
With a little time and effort, your old apple tree will be producing plenty of fruit in no time!
Cut away any suckers
Suckers are fast-growing shoots that sprout from the roots or lower trunk of a tree. They compete with the apple tree for water and nutrients, and can drain the tree of its energy.
To remove suckers, use a sharp spade or pruning saw to cut them off at their base. Make sure to remove all of the sucker, as even a small portion left behind can regrow.
How to care for an old apple tree after pruning
After pruning an old apple tree, it is important to care for the tree properly in order to maintain its health and vigor. Proper care of an old apple tree after pruning includes watering, fertilizing, and monitoring for pests and diseases.
Fertilize the tree
A fertilizer high in nitrogen is best for an old apple tree. Fertilize in early spring, before the leaves begin to bud. Apply the fertilizer around the circumference of the tree, just beyond the dripline of branches. Do not allow the fertilizer to touch the trunk of the tree.
Water the tree
It’s important to water your tree regularly, especially after pruning. This will help the tree heal and prevent it from drying out and dying. Be sure to check the soil around the tree every week or so, and water it deeply if it feels dry. You may need to water more often if the weather is hot and dry.