Late summer is the ideal time to give your stone fruit trees some much-needed attention. Pruning now, rather than waiting until winter, can lead to a healthier tree and a more abundant harvest next year.
Why Prune in Late Summer?
Many gardeners make the mistake of waiting until winter to prune their stone fruit trees. However, pruning in late summer has several key advantages:
- Reduces the risk of silver leaf disease, which spreads more easily in damp winter conditions
- Allows wounds to heal faster while the tree is still actively growing
- Helps control the tree's shape and size before winter dormancy
How to Prune Properly
Follow these expert tips for successful summer pruning:
- Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts
- Remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches first
- Thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation
- Make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above outward-facing buds
- Avoid removing more than 25% of the tree's canopy
Aftercare Matters
After pruning, give your tree the best chance to recover:
- Water deeply if conditions are dry
- Apply a balanced fertiliser to support new growth
- Monitor for signs of disease or pests
By taking action now, you'll set your stone fruit trees up for success through winter and beyond. A little effort today means healthier trees and sweeter fruit tomorrow.
