In this video, Tricia gives you the basics of what pruning tools you need your garden and when to use them. You'll also learn the two main types of cuts and what they're used for, as well as good sanitation practices.
Mastering the Basics of Pruning: A Guide for Organic Gardeners
Pruning is a fundamental skill every gardener should master to maintain healthy, productive trees. Whether you’re working on a multi-grafted tree or simply maintaining an orchard, understanding proper techniques and tools is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prune effectively and safely.
Tools for Pruning
Having the right tools ensures clean cuts and minimizes damage to your trees:
- Bypass Hand Pruners: Ideal for branches under 1 inch in diameter.
- Loppers: Provide leverage for branches 1–2 inches in diameter.
- Pruning Saw: Perfect for branches over 2 inches in diameter.
- Pole Pruner: For hard-to-reach branches on taller trees.
Always disinfect your tools between trees, especially when dealing with diseased branches. Use rubbing alcohol to prevent spreading infections.
Types of Pruning Cuts
- Thinning Cuts: Remove an entire branch down to another branch or the trunk. These cuts maintain the tree’s size and encourage better airflow without stimulating excessive growth.
- Heading Cuts: Shorten a branch back to an outward-facing bud. These cuts stimulate bushy growth and are best for shaping young trees and fruiting varieties like peaches and nectarines.
Pruning Techniques for Large Branches
For branches over 2 inches in diameter, use the three-cut method:
- Make an undercut one-third of the way through the branch, a foot from the branch collar.
- Cut from the top a few inches beyond the undercut.
- Make the final cut near the branch collar to ensure proper healing.
Safety Tips
- Use a three-legged orchard ladder for stability.
- Avoid cutting branches larger than 4 inches in diameter to reduce decay risks.
- Always have someone nearby when working on ladders.
Maintaining Multi-Grafted Trees
When pruning multi-grafted trees, balance the growth of each graft to ensure one doesn’t dominate. Thin selectively and avoid over-pruning, which can stress the tree.
Conclusion
With proper tools, techniques, and safety measures, pruning can become a rewarding part of your gardening routine. Keep your trees healthy, encourage robust growth, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Grow organic for life!
