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Prune a Pear Tree?
Hi All
I have had a pear tree which I bought as one of three (the others are apple and plum) miniatures about three years ago and it has finally fruited. I pruned the apple tree to ensure no crossing branches and to keep the centre open. Do I/should I do the same for this pear tree? If the plum tree ever fruits will the same principle apply? I have included a photo. Sorry the only way I could do it.
Thanks Bob
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I have no idea what the proper thing to do is, but i do exactly what you have described, keep the middle clear and make a sort of goblet shape, i do this with all but my dessert apples which i grow as cordons, done this for many years, no problems yet
Open centre and goblet shape is ideal for all 'bush' type trees, Bob. (Someone told me it should be possible for a pigeon to fly through without touching any branches, but that sounds like an exaggeration to me!)
First, remove any dead, damaged or diseased branches at their base, then any crossing or growing into the centre. From what you have left (probably most of it in a youngish tree), shorten the leaders by one to two thirds of the new growth (cut weak shoots harder) and cut side shoots to six (?) leaves.
Pansyface is quite right about plums (and peaches, cherries etc should you get more adventurous) - prune between May and July when they're growing vigorously.
Will write your advice down this time!
Great feedback. Thanks to all. Apologies for putting this in TalkBack when I was trying to get it in Fruit and Veg. See attached photo - I hope!!!
Smashing pear tree, defenately needs a trim