What time of the year do Cherry & Plum trees need to be pruned?
Initial pruning of cherry, plum, and peach trees is to establish a strong well-spaced permanent branch structure. The open center method of training is most common. The method consists of a 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 foot trunk with 3 or 4 scaffold branches arising from it. Select branches with a wide angle of 80-90 degrees. They are stronger than ones with a narrow crotch angle. Plums, cherries, peaches and other stone fruits need yearly pruning. If you prune regularly, you improve the chances for a good crop every year. Regular pruning also reduces pest problems, keeps trees attractive and improves tree longevity. When you plant any fruit tree and each year thereafter, prune out any dead or broken branches. Remove any conflicting branches, that is, branches that rub or cross against each other. This can cause a wound in time, and diseases can enter easily through these wounds. The best time to prune stone fruit trees is in late winter through early spring. Each year remove any dead or broken bra
