Prune in late winter or very early spring while the tree is dormant
Use clean, sharp pruning tools
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches first
Cut out crossing, rubbing, or inward-growing branches
Remove suckers from the base and water sprouts from the 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
Do not remove more than one-third of the tree in a single year
Thin crowded fruiting spurs if needed
Remove low branches that interfere with movement or mowing
Disinfect tools between cuts if disease is present
Prune lightly each year rather than heavily all at once