Prune in late winter or very early spring while the tree is dormant
Use clean, sharp pruning shears, loppers, and a pruning saw
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches first
Cut out branches that cross, rub, or grow inward
Remove water sprouts and suckers
Open the center of the tree to allow sunlight and air circulation
Keep the tree in an open vase shape
Cut back vigorous upright shoots to encourage outward growth
Thin crowded fruiting wood to improve fruit size and quality
Shorten long branches to maintain manageable height
Make cuts just above an outward-facing bud or branch
Remove no more than about one-third of the tree in a single season
Disinfect tools between cuts if disease is present
Remove all pruned material from around the tree
Repeat light annual pruning to maintain shape and productivity