How come my fruit tree doesn produce an abundance of large fruit?
Successful fruit tree yield in the garden is dependent on several factors. First it is important for fruit trees to get a full days’ sunlight. They should not be planted as understory trees. Plant them out in the open. It is a good idea to investigate some pruning techniques as well. Apple and Peartrees should have one main leader. Branches with a 45o angle will be the strongest so keep them. Also be sure to prune off “water sprouts” which are vigorous shoots that grow from the topside of a limb. A ten-year-old tree should have 5 to 7 limbs growing from the trunk. When it comes to fertilizing, make sure this is done about 2 weeks before bloom. Do not over-fertilize. This may inhibit fruit set as well as encourage disease. Review Fact Sheet 186 Another point to remember during extended drought conditions and especially water restrictions is to water wisely. Frequent light waterings tend to bring a lawn in and out of dormancy over time and this makes for a weaker lawn. It also encourages
