If starting with a maiden, prune the main stem back by 1/3 of its length. Any side branches that are less than 15cm can be left unpruned. Prune back the main stem to 15cm above a side branch. If starting with a feathered maiden, prune all side branches back to 10cm. See our website for details on how to train the new growth for these forms. Prune the tree down to around 35 – 45cm from the ground. This is generally between 1m – 1.5m from the ground. Reduce the main stem to a height at which you would like side branches to form. If you want to create a centre-leader tree (Christmas tree shape) then prune the main stem back to 15-20cm above an existing side branch.īy pruning the main stem back you will encourage side branches to grow in the following summer. We simulated the pruning in small fruit stage and fruit picking in matured stage respectively. This type of tree has a pyramidal shape with a single upright leader limb as its highest point. Citrus tree was used as an example to test the proposed method. If you want to create a goblet shaped tree (open centre) then prune the main stem back to an existing side branch. European Plum trees do best when pruned and trained to a central leader tree. If the branches are less than 15cm then leave them unpruned.

Eg, a 50cm side branch can be pruned back to 25cm.

You can prune back any side branches that are longer than 15cm by half their length. Prune plum, gage, damson and cherry trees as below during the months May – July. This 2 page flyer helps describe how to prune older fruit trees for maximum strength and fruit yield (for backyard style orchards). Prune apple, pear, quince and medlar trees as below during the months Dec – March.

Pruning plum trees download