Of course, it is easier and easier to entrust the matter to a specialist, but this option is not always possible. I will tell you about the features of self-pruning of fruit trees in the winter.
First of all, you should determine the appropriate time for the procedure. And then I look at the strength of the frost on the street. The most suitable temperature is considered to be about -5 ° C, since with this indicator the bark is not injured too much, and the cuts come out even and dense. If the winter in your region happened very harsh, then you should carefully study the twigs of the same age. If, during an experimental cut along its entire length, you observe a dark color, then such shoots should be removed.
Let me draw your attention to the fact that old trees undergo a special anti-aging pruning.
How does the process of winter pruning begin?
This process has a specific sequence of actions and steps. Of course, there is no strict scenario. I will tell you a step-by-step method that I am following myself.
I usually start with the following trees:
- quince;
- pear;
- Rowan;
- different types of apple trees.
These trees wake up from sleep earlier than others, and they should have enough time to strengthen and recover.
After working with them, it is the turn of stone fruits:
- Cherry;
- apricot;
- plum;
- cherries.
What am I removing from the "sleeping" trees? Firstly, all damaged and definitely dried out branches are pruned. Often I mark them back in the fall with the help of bright markers: wire or thread. Then comes the turn of chaotically growing branches that violate the shape of the crown and thicken it. Focus on the horizontal growth of branches, any strong deviation up or down will give you a sign that it is better to cut the branch. I cut the sprouts clean, leaving no unnecessary hemp and shoots - neither the tree nor you need them.
For thin branches, we look at the direction of growth - we also remove vertically or too angularly growing.
Developed and strong branches are shortened by half, but for those that are not strengthened, it is better to leave 2/3 of the length.
I note that in winter, crown formation is easier, since foliage and fruits do not prevent you from evaluating the exact appearance.
A controversial issue in our procedure will be the need to lubricate the cut points with special means. Opinions, as always in our garden world, are divided almost equally, so each gardener makes a decision independently. In my opinion, it is better to process the sections in order to protect the bare area of the plant from external factors. Garden var or oil paint works best. Small wounds can be left like that, but it is better to smear slices from two centimeters in size.
A popular recipe for var that I use is as follows:
- 200 g of natural wax;
- 250 g of solid oil;
- 50 g of pine resin is better than pine.
The ingredients should be placed in a common container, heated and mixed into a single mass.
In conclusion, I will note the importance of timely and good sharpening of the tools used: saws, pruners, garden shears.
Do not be afraid to carry out winter pruning, with the right approach and accurate execution, your fruit gardeners will not even notice the interference.
Read also: Let's figure out whether it is worth leaving the polycarbonate greenhouse open in winter or not.
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