This year was our first attempt at Summer Pruning. Taking out new growth in the summer increases the light available to developing fruit, leading to improved colour, sugar content, and greater size.

Opening up the canopy also improves air circulation and deters pests and disease which thrives in sheltered conditions. It also reduces the amount of water the tree needs, hopefully directing water taken up by the roots into the fruit rather than surplus vegetative growth.

Only the tips of the new growth were removed. This will encourage the production of sideshoots and the formation of short fruiting spurs, leading to greater yield next year.

‘June drop’ will often occur to remove small and redundant apples. However, where the bunch of apples extended to about 7 apples, and they all appeared securely attached, a sharp pair of secateurs was used to remove 2-3 small apples. This will allow the remaining fruit to expand. Its all about quality not quantity!