formative pruning of fruit trees Flashcards
name some different forms of apple trees (pruning forms)
oblique cordons, spindle bush, espalier, pyramid tree
upright cordon, dwarf bush, spindle bush tree
For bush trees, how much stem should be clear of lateral branches?
75cm
For dwarf bush trees, how much stem should be clear of lateral branches?
45cm
Trees taller than dwarf and bush trees should be pruned so they have what form?
a goblet shape with an open centre.
oblique cordons, spindle bush, espalier, pyramid tree
upright cordon, dwarf bush and spindle bush trees are on what rootstock and ideal for what location?
on dwarfing rootstocks
ideal for small gardens
easily pruned
where are cordons and espaliers usually grown?
on a fence or wall - very popular in a small garden
what shape is spindle bush pruning aimed at?
a cone with one central stem and a number of horizontal brannches
what height from the ground do the horizontal stems start at on a spindle bush?
60cm
A heavy fruit crop is produced from what form of pruned tree/bush?
a spindle bush - all forms are fixed with a strong stake
what is essential for young trees to become productive?
formative pruning and training - this allows the tree to develop into the required shape with strong framework (this allows greater fruit production)
Describe the essentials of formative pruning
cut away any unwanted branches/stems so the remaining can form the whole framework
training involves tying in specific branches to develop the specific shape
takes time
describe the essentials of maintenance pruning
maintains the established shape
name some untrained trees
apples
pears
quinces
when do you prune apples, pears and quinces?
prune in winter when dormant
when should you prune stone fruits and why?
spring/summer to avoid infection from silver leaf
when are restricted forms of fruit trees pruned?
summer - keeps them withing their restricted space and focuses their energy on producing fruit.
name some apple cultivars used in modern gardens
sunset
Blenheim orange
Fiesta
name some dessert apples and when to pick them
sunset - late sep
Fiesta - Early October
name some culinary apples and when to pick them
Blenheim orange - pick in October
Granadier - pick in August
