formative pruning of fruit trees

Question 1

name some different forms of apple trees (pruning forms)

Answer 1

oblique cordons, spindle bush, espalier, pyramid tree
upright cordon, dwarf bush, spindle bush tree

Question 2

For bush trees, how much stem should be clear of lateral branches?

Answer 2

75cm

Question 3

For dwarf bush trees, how much stem should be clear of lateral branches?

Answer 3

45cm

Question 4

Trees taller than dwarf and bush trees should be pruned so they have what form?

Answer 4

a goblet shape with an open centre.

Question 5

oblique cordons, spindle bush, espalier, pyramid tree
upright cordon, dwarf bush and spindle bush trees are on what rootstock and ideal for what location?

Answer 5

on dwarfing rootstocks
ideal for small gardens
easily pruned

Question 6

where are cordons and espaliers usually grown?

Answer 6

on a fence or wall - very popular in a small garden

Question 7

what shape is spindle bush pruning aimed at?

Answer 7

a cone with one central stem and a number of horizontal brannches

Question 8

what height from the ground do the horizontal stems start at on a spindle bush?

Answer 8

60cm

Question 9

A heavy fruit crop is produced from what form of pruned tree/bush?

Answer 9

a spindle bush - all forms are fixed with a strong stake

Question 10

what is essential for young trees to become productive?

Answer 10

formative pruning and training - this allows the tree to develop into the required shape with strong framework (this allows greater fruit production)

Question 11

Describe the essentials of formative pruning

Answer 11

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

Question 12

describe the essentials of maintenance pruning

Answer 12

maintains the established shape

Question 13

name some untrained trees

Answer 13

apples
pears
quinces

Question 14

when do you prune apples, pears and quinces?

Answer 14

prune in winter when dormant

Question 15

when should you prune stone fruits and why?

Answer 15

spring/summer to avoid infection from silver leaf

Question 16

when are restricted forms of fruit trees pruned?

Answer 16

summer - keeps them withing their restricted space and focuses their energy on producing fruit.

Question 17

name some apple cultivars used in modern gardens

Answer 17

sunset
Blenheim orange
Fiesta

Question 18

name some dessert apples and when to pick them

Answer 18

sunset - late sep
Fiesta - Early October

Question 19

name some culinary apples and when to pick them

Answer 19

Blenheim orange - pick in October
Granadier - pick in August