We moved here just over 6 years ago, inheriting a small 12m x 14m back garden, lots of fence to fence grass, one damson tree and one smaller apple tree plus a pond containing around 23 small koi of various kinds! Don't know the apple tree variety name but the fragrant pink & white spring blossom in late April & abundant fruits we harvest September / October are wonderful to behold! I'm guessing the tree is about 10 years old?
Most of the harvest is put to good culinery use in Carole's recipes - jars of chutney, pies, crumbles and the most delicious pale pink apple jelly. Delicious on warm, buttered cheese scones or added to a freshly made lunchtime sandwich on a busy gardening day.
Towards the end of January, I usually carry out some sort of assessment on the tree's overall growth, shape and state, followed by a bit of gentle pruning. This helps keep the tree in good condition and ensures we'll have fruit in the autumn. Pruning's always carried out on a dry day with the aim of encouraging the growth of the tree through an open crown or goblet shape. Encouraging growth in this way allows the air to circulate between branches, lets in more sunlight & reduces potential for tree diseases.
Tools / equipment needed - loppers, secateurs, protective gloves, goggles.
Method
- remove crossing shoots or branches (these create friction and cause them to be prone to disease).
- take out any diseased, weak or dying shoots
- remove new stems which are growing towards the centre of the tree.
- any new side shoots can be left so that potential fruit buds can develop next year.
- when pruning the previous year's growth, cut just above an outward facing bud.
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