Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant
Use clean, sharp pruning tools
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches first
Cut out crossing, rubbing, or crowded branches
Remove suckers growing from the base or roots
Remove water sprouts growing straight up from branches
Keep the center open to allow light and air circulation
Maintain a strong central leader or desired tree shape
Shorten overly long branches to encourage balanced growth
Make cuts just outside the branch collar
Avoid leaving stubs
Do not remove more than one-third of the tree in a single year
Thin fruiting wood to improve fruit size and quality
Remove branches growing inward toward the trunk
Step back often to check the tree’s shape as you prune
Disinfect tools between cuts if disease is present
Remove fallen prunings from around the tree
Prune young trees lightly to establish structure
Prune mature trees annually to maintain shape and productivity