Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches first
Cut out crossing, rubbing, and inward-growing branches
Remove water sprouts and suckers
Keep the central leader or main framework strong
Thin crowded branches to improve light and air flow
Make cuts just outside the branch collar
Use clean, sharp pruning tools
Do not remove more than one-third of the tree in a single year
Shape the tree into an open, balanced structure
Remove low branches that interfere with access or growth
Shorten overly long branches to encourage stronger structure
Disinfect tools between cuts if disease is present