Top Tips for Fruit Tree Pruning - By The Professionals
At West Hill, we understand that every fruit tree is unique, which is why we tailor our pruning techniques to suit the specific type, age, and condition of your trees. Our skilled team uses expert methods to help your trees thrive year after year.
To help you better understand the importance of fruit tree pruning and how our services can benefit you, we’ve answered some of the most common questions below. If you’re looking for professional fruit tree care, feel free to reach out—we’d be delighted to help!
When's the best time to prune fruit trees?
This actually depends on the type of tree. For apples and pears, winter is your window, as you need to prune when the tree is in its dormant phase. But if you have cherries or plum trees, it's best to aim for summer pruning. Pruning fruit trees at the right time is important, not only for encouraging growth but also for avoiding diseases like silver leaf.
Why is pruning so important?
Think of pruning like as a haircut for your tree, it keeps the tree in shape, helps it grow strong and healthy, and can even boost fruit production. It also gets rid of dead or diseased branches, so your tree stays in good condition.
How often should fruit trees be pruned?
Most fruit trees are happy with an annual prune. Once a year is usually enough to keep their structure sound, their branches healthy, and their fruit plentiful. But don't worry—it's not a hard and fast rule.
Can I prune my fruit trees myself, or do I need a professional?
Of course, you can do it yourself, especially if you're just tidying things up. But for more complex pruning, especially if the tree's old or has been left to its own devices for a while, then a professional tree pruner can work wonders.
What's the difference between winter and summer pruning?
Winter pruning focuses on shaping the tree and encouraging new, strong growth. Summer pruning, on the other hand, is about managing size and improving light for the fruit. Summer pruning stone fruits such as plum and cherry trees are also a safer choice for reducing disease risks.
How do you make sure pruning doesn't cause disease?
We disinfect our tools between trees and make sure cuts are clean and precise. Timing matters too, we prefer to prune during dry spells, so there's less chance of infection setting in.
Do you work with old or neglected trees?
Of course, in fact, there's something incredibly satisfying about bringing an old, overgrown tree back to life. We carefully remove deadwood, reshape the canopy, and help the tree find its rhythm again.
What areas do you cover?
We're based in Wells and we offer pruning services across Somerset and Bristol. If you're unsure whether we can get to you, please just ask—we're always happy to have a conversation about your requirements.
Can pruning really improve how much fruit my tree produces?
Proper pruning can make a huge difference to how much fruit a tree produces. Proper pruning lets more light and air reach the branches, which means healthier growth and better-quality fruit. It's all about helping the tree use its energy wisely.
How much does fruit tree pruning cost?
Well, this depends on the size of your tree(s), how many need pruning, and how much work they need. The best way to find out is by getting in touch with us for a free, no-obligation quote.
